The start of the school year is vastly approaching and has already arrived for many students. In the midst of many issues, like the teacher shortage and the pandemic; here’s a guide on how to best prepare for the start of a new semester.
Preparation
- School supplies: Get in touch with your school if you’re confused on what supplies your child needs.
- DHS recommends these essential items: tissues, hand sanitizer, and face masks.
- Plan for absence: Preplan in the event your child cannot go to school. If your child is sick they shouldn’t attend school, according to DHS.
- Students will also have to stay home and quarantine if they had close contact with a person that has the coronavirus and isn’t fully vaxxed.
- Make a plan and communicate with the child’s teacher and school if they have any other health-related issues like asthma or diabetes.
Health
- Vaccinations: Ensure your child is caught up on all routine child vaccinations. DHS reminds to not forget about the annual flu shot this fall.
- Checkups: Make sure you keep up with child’s routine health care visits to help prevent conditions and ensure health.
- COVID-19: Steps to reduce likelihood of infection include regularly washing hands, wearing masks at school and on bus, staying 6 feet from other when able to and getting vaccinated when eligible.
- Testing may be available at your child’s school. If there is, you’d need to provide your consent to the testing.
Mental and Social Well-Being
- Mental Health: Talk to your child about mental health. Be aware of school resources to aid.
- Bullying: Encourage your child to speak up if they’re having a problem with another person at the school. Also remind them to treat others with kindness and respect.
- Social connections: Encourage positive social connections and relationships. Friends and feeling a “sense of belonging” is important to child’s psychological health, according to DHS.