| I've learned a trick, thanks to the parents who came before me: I don't buy everything on that middle school supply list until the kids start school, because the teachers always have different wants and needs than what's on that list. I saved a lot of money in recent years by getting only the essentials to start, then learning within a few days what the kids actually need. (You're welcome.) But as this school year tentatively begins, one thing is certain: We need to buy them masks. Good ones that fit. As Alison Stine writes, this year's hottest school supply item is, like so many other things, creating issues for a lot of caretakers who don't have the funds for the masks that are highly rated. It's yet another concern parents are adding to their overburdened shoulders as we hold our collective breath for this new school year. One that is already proving to be too difficult and unsettled. Here's hoping you all have a safe, healthy weekend – and a successful start to the school year. | There are now 10 school districts, including two in counties that supported President Donald Trump in 2020, that have voted for mask mandates, defying a decree by the governor. By Valerie Strauss ● Read more » | | | |
Parenting in a Pandemic These are challenging times for any parent to navigate. Let On Parenting help. Below you'll find a selection of expert advice and personal stories for all types of parents. To keep up with The Post's best advice for living through a lockdown, including recipes to make, shows to watch, the best socializing apps, resources for parents, guidance for managing anxiety and tips for canceled trips, bookmark Your Life at Home. And the latest on school reopenings can be found on The Post's Education page. For vaccinated parents with unvaccinated kids | Vaccinated adults may have more freedom. But for kids, 'the rules haven't changed.' For parents dealing with virtual school | Strategies to improve distance learning | Tips for creating a good learning environment at home | How parents can avoid anxiety around distance learning For parents dealing with in-person school | How to help children adjust to masks, according to experts and parents | As kids move from quarantine to school, separation anxiety may follow. Here's how to help. For parents working from home | 6 strategies for parents struggling with work-from-home interruptions For parents looking ahead to post-pandemic life | The pandemic changed everything about family life. These are the parts parents want to keep. |