Another school year, another Trapper Keeper and 1,000 pack of pre-sharpened #2 pencils to buy! But, as much of the country is getting back to some semblance of normal, the ongoing pandemic has a lot of parents and teachers scrambling to prepare for the first day. Here are some tips to keep you safe—and sane—this back to school season:

• Shop online or off-hours: Avoid the mad dash to nab that last box of crayons by ordering online (using the list provided by your school). If you are committed to supporting local businesses, get there early and know exactly what you need.
• Stock up on masks: With kids under 12 still unvaccinated, guidance for most elementary school students will be to wear a mask while indoors. Find some cool masks and make them just another part of school clothes this fall. Check with your school and local officials regarding mask mandates and proof of vaccination requirements.
• Smile with your eyes (and don’t be afraid to reach out): Masks definitely cover up our emotions, so encourage kids to express themselves in other ways. Smile with your eyes, use hand gestures to get your point and enthusiasm across, squeeze a shoulder or fist-bump a friend or teacher who’s made your day. Getting back into a social setting will be a big shift, but don’t forget how to be an engaged human!
• Brush up on hygiene habits: Everyone eases up a little during the summer, but as we get into the colder months, remind kids to wash hands often, cough or sneeze into their elbows, and stay home if they feel at all unwell. (That Perfect Attendance ribbon is just not worth it!)
• Geek out: With many virtual options still available, creating a connected learning space for kids is dependent on up-to-date tech. A quick Google search will show you a few must-haves including:
  • ChomeBook – Moderately priced laptop/tablet that allows kids to connect to their classrooms, store Word documents and images, and flip to a tablet for reading and drawing.
  • Headphones – Consider the Wyze headphones that provide terrific sound AND noise-cancelling function (for multi-kid households!) for under $80.
  • Organizational Apps – Getting back to a schedule after free-for-all summers is tough. Check your App Store for great apps to keep your family organized and connected this school year. Try Wunderlist, My Study Life, or iStudiez to get school projects, sports, and activities under control.
• Relax: The world is still a bit uncertain so remember to take time for yourself—and with your kids and apart from them—to just breathe. Lots of apps are available to guide you through yoga, meditation, and breathing but you can always just take a nice walk, journal, or call a friend to talk about anything other than school.

May your return to school be smooth, your schedule be manageable, and all your lunches be Sloppy Joe’s!