Well, teachers in my school district just got the notification that we will be in person starting on the first day of school in August. While it seems that there are so many changes every day, I had to start planning and prepping how I would introduce (new) rules and expectations to my new group of students. There are SO many thoughts racing through my mind. Rethinking how we will use (or not use!?!) our manipulatives, classroom library, and other supplies is making my head spin!
One thing that helped was writing a social story about a boy named Logan’s return to school. In this story, Back to School, Logan learned how some things will be the same (learning, meeting new friends and a new teacher!) and some things will be very different- wearing a mask, social distancing, and not sharing supplies.
I also created different posters about ways to stay healthy and the correct way to wash your hands to kill all germs.
Wearing a mask, or seeing other people wear masks, can cause uncertainty, curiosity, or anxiety in many children. I wrote this social story to bring an understanding to children about how and why we are currently wearing masks. This story is one that many children will be able to relate to and connect with.
If you have children who can benefit from this story, you can check it out here: Wearing a mask social story
If you are thinking some of these resources will help your students, too, you can check them out here:
Returning to School: Covid 19 Bundle
Did you hear your district’s plan yet? Will you be in person, teaching remotely, or using a hybrid model? Or are you still waiting on pins and needles to hear the verdict? Reply to be below!
