The past few months have been anything but normal. But now that school is back in session, it’s a great time to also get back to better well-being. Whether your child is in class or online, getting into a routine of healthy habits can support improved learning. Here are some tips for starting the school year off right:
- Healthy meals feed the brain. Learn more about healthy cooking and nutrition at home at our free virtual Healthy Nutrition Basics, presented by Common Threads. Programs available on Sept. 10 and 22. Register
- Create healthy sleep habits: practice going to bed early and rising early as you would for a normal school day, getting 9-11 hours of sleep.
- Learn digital-learning etiquette: dress according to dress code, learn how to mute and unmute, and only drink water during class
- Get set up and comfortable in a learning space: stock up on supplies and test out equipment in advance.
CHILDCARE AND TUTORING RESOURCES
Parents looking for resources for childcare and tutoring have plenty of choices, locally and nationally. Note, there may be a fee for some of these resources.
- The City of Fort Worth’s community centers have been innovative in meeting this year’s changing needs. Check out their new Camp Connection, a two-week extension of summer camp, followed with homework assistance when online learning starts in September.
- YMCA of Fort Worth is also extending summer camp and offering a new half or full day distance learning support program. Learn more here.
- Check out The Best Place for Kids’ Child Care Locator Tool or Child Care Associates for information on Head Start, Early Head Start or childcare subsidies
- The Play Space is offering in-person learning pods 2,3, or 5 days per week
- North Texas Enrichment Center is offering in-person remote learning pods and tutoring
- Varsity Tutors is providing online learning pods and 1-on-1 tutoring
- Testing Mom is also offering online learning pods
- Students can get extra help online through academic classes or enrichment classes, from music to wellness, at Outschool
- Parents can check out Wide Open School for tips on how to use Google Classroom and Zoom, two platforms likely to be used for online learning in the fall
PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION CHECK-IN
If your student is working remotely or at their campus, here are tips to ensure two-way school communication to support you during the school year:
- E-mail your student’s teacher at least every few weeks to check in for progress, clarification on homework, and more educational support if needed.
- Check-in with the counselor if you need help with social emotional support, resources, or even high school deadlines you might need to navigate with your student.
- Join your parent organization to keep apprised of opportunities being conducted within your school community and ways to stay connected with other parents and guardians.
- Take 5-10 minutes to decompress by stretching, breathing, or stepping outside for fresh air to support your well-being.
To all students, parents, teachers and everyone who supports them, we wish you a successful, healthy school year.