It’s that time of year again.
Normally about now, families start ending summer vacation. They start planning for the school year ahead. And of course, there’s all the back-to-school shopping.
But this year is one like no other. And not much about the school year ahead resembles something typical.
There’s a pandemic and need for social distancing, as we’re more than well-aware. And we are seeing the impacts of that on education from the national and state level, all the way down to our districts, schools and students.
This month’s back-to-school issue reflects the challenges and changes local families face — but it also reflects the educational community’s ability to adapt and problem-solve.
Our main feature covers this topic thoroughly in an in-depth piece about what parents, students and teachers can anticipate on that first day of school, as well as how districts and educators have had to keep very nimble to get there. It’s a piece every parent will want to read.
Our other feature his month covers the topic of after-school activities and sports, their benefits and ways kids can continue receiving some of these benefits even nowadays.
Even though it’s far from the usual back-to-school shopping season, there are still some supplies parents will want to get their students — albeit some very different from what they likely expected. To that end, What’s Hot offers an expanded edition this month in order to include some useful items spanning the categories of safety, learning and function (think: easy-to-clean lunch gear).
Considering it’s still plenty hot out, Foodie Jr. gives some great ideas on keeping hydrated with some frozen drink options for all members of the family. Meanwhile, The Pause Button offers up some outdoor fun for the family in the form of local hikes that lend themselves perfectly to this time of year.
Things have changed a lot at home. And for pet owners, that could mean something else to consider: how pets might react when kids and parents start leaving the home more. Pets in the Family covers this by addressing the possibility of separation anxiety, signs to look out for and some ways to deal with it.
Speaking of anxiety — many of us have undoubtedly experienced it on some level over the past few months. Along those lines, our Mindfulness column covers the important topic of methods for staying sane when things get real.
It’s an unusual back-to-school, no doubt about it. But we are adapting and making things work how we can.
— Jessica Peralta, Editor
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