This September is looking a lot different than any other. With kids returning to the classroom for the first time in six months, the back-to-school shopping cart will have a few new necessities this year.
This Not That
When considering your child’s school supplies, you’ll want to think of ways to keep them clean and germ-free.
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Instead of: |
Choose: |
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● A zip-up fabric-covered binder with pouches and pockets |
● A simple version that can easily be wiped down |
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● A fabric pencil case |
● A wipeable pencil box |
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● Drinks from the fountain |
● A good quality water bottle or 2 since some schools won’t be offering a water fountain access |
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● Hand-held food |
● Food that can be eaten with a compact fork/spoon or small picks |
It may be a good idea to check with your child’s teacher about what items you will need to supply this year that are typically on-hand in the classroom. It is doubtful that communal items will be available so kids may need a few extra essentials this September.
Wipe It Down
There will be extra janitorial services in all schools, disinfecting high-traffic areas and doing their best to keep classrooms as clean as can be. However, your child may want to take a few minutes to wipe down their binder, pencil box and water bottle each day. These items will not be the responsibility of the school although they do need to be cleaned. Our wet wipes are 75% alcohol and come in a convenient packet that can easily be tucked into a desk or locker.
Sanitize
Hand sanitizer has become a way of life and your kid is likely accustomed to using it when entering/exiting public areas. Packing an individual dispenser for your student will help them sanitize when soap and water are not available. This 3-pack has aloe and vitamin E to protect hands from becoming cracked and dry. Or you may consider a small dispenser that can latch onto a backpack to prevent them from digging for it.
It’s a good idea to check with your child’s school regarding hand sanitizer. You’ll want to ensure the use is supervised as it can be toxic if swallowed.
Masks
Masks are mandatory at schools. Your child has probably already experienced wearing a mask this summer when visiting the grocery store or the mall. It’s a good idea to practice wearing them for extended periods so they can get used to them before heading back to the classroom. Our 3-ply kid masks are designed to fit smaller faces.
As a parent, you know “things” happen (masks will get lost, damaged or dirty) and packing a few extras will be necessary. With every purchase of this box of 10 masks, 3 masks will be donated to the relief efforts of World Vision.
They say necessity is the mother of invention and that is certainly true for these ear savers! Last September no one would have ever considered such a thing. However, the design is quite clever to help alleviate the strain on ears when wearing a mask. These little fasteners will come in handy for your students.
There will be times during the day that your child removes their mask - recess, gym class and lunch. You may consider sending them with a plastic container to keep their mask clean while they have removed it. This will also give them a place to put it and, hopefully, prevent it from being lost! An idea for younger children is to use a lanyard for their mask. This will help them keep it safe and close at hand when they take it off. It may be fun for them to choose their favourite colour to encourage them to embrace the idea and use it effectively.
To make life easier and more economical for parents, we have compiled Back to School Kits, complete with these essentials: masks, ear savers, sanitizer and wipes.And one last tip for all you parents. Label everything! With so many extra bits headed to the classroom, you’ll want to include your child’s name on everything. Their teacher will thank you and you’ll save yourself a trip to the lost and found or risk having it thrown away.
If you have any questions about these products or other cleaning essentials, contact our team. We’re happy to help you make the right choice for your needs.