In the face of our rapidly evolving world, the established structure of traditional school is not exempt from these changes. This year, most school systems have already shared the news: the educational landscape will significantly differ. One undeniable fact to consider is the likely increase in virtual learning during this new academic year. As a result, the school supplies we usually rush to buy are probably not required this year. So, what should be on your shopping list as school reopens in these unprecedented times?
WIRELESS HEADPHONES
Virtual learning has presented us with certain technological challenges to conquer, one notable concern being the strong demand for wireless headphones. In a household filled with kids and also functioning as a workstation, wireless headphones are an essential item. It’s nearly impossible for anyone to comfortably work or study with multiple conversations and class discussions happening simultaneously. So, our first investment entailed purchasing wireless headphones for those children who lacked them or had faulty pairs. We bought iJoy wireless headphones for less than $20 for the younger kids. The older ones, desiring a higher-end model, received iClever wireless headphones priced around $30, featuring superior sound quality and easy connectivity to all devices. If these are still beyond your price range, you can get cheaper wireless headphones, as low as $9 at Target. Despite being elementary, they get the job done. If your household has multiple individuals juggling meetings or studies, wireless headphones are a necessity.
TABLETS OR LAPTOPS
The priciest item on this year’s back-to-school list will likely be a tablet or laptop. Without these devices, your children can’t participate in virtual learning. We primarily purchase our tablets or laptops from the refurbished category, as they are much cheaper. Given that devices have a relatively short lifespan, investing a huge amount of money on them doesn’t seem justified. This is even more relevant considering that children aren’t always the most cautious with them. If we buy a used or refurbished device, I won’t be as devastated if it gets damaged. Some favorable places to hunt for used/refurbished tablets or laptops include Amazon, Best Buy, Facebook Marketplace, New Egg, Overstock, Staples, and Tiger Direct.
Regardless of your preference for new or refurbished, tablet or laptop, please make sure to obtain a protective cover. This will prolong the gadget’s life even if it gets dropped or stepped on.
SEATING FOR VIRTUAL LEARNING
After securing the required technology for your child’s distance learning, the next concern is seating arrangements. If you already have a designated spot for their school work, excellent! But if you don’t, you will have to help create that space. An old school desk works great for our youngest, but bean bag chairs or foldable bungee chairs are also viable and enjoyable options. We actually have a combination of all three choices for our kids.
COMFORTABLE CLOTHE
Don’t forget about the significance of comfortable clothing during back-to-school shopping. As most of us are now working or learning remotely, the need to feel comfortable in our outfits is just as important as maintaining our professional work attire. Shifting from pajamas to casual wear offers a significant transition from sleep to work. So, remember to ensure that your kids still get ready for school, even if attending from home. Some recommended items might include athletic shorts, yoga pants, humorous graphic t-shirts, sleeveless muscle t-shirts, fuzzy socks with grippers, and sweatpants.
To summarize, this year’s academic environment will certainly be different. We are all striving to find our way through these challenging circumstances, and our kids are somewhat struggling more than us to navigate these adjustments. As parents, we should aim to provide a smooth transition back to school by supplying them with the right learning essentials. Consequently, bear in mind these necessary items for online learning: wireless headphones, tablet or laptop, comfortable seating, and cozy loungewear. Even if children won’t physically return to school any time soon, furnishing them with the right materials can enhance their learning experience, helping them adapt to this change until normalcy is restored. What school supplies are you planning to secure this year for your children’s virtual learning endeavor?
