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The big questions for families in Dallas-Fort Worth this summer circled around one central topic: school. How do we continue to educate our children safely? How do we protect the teachers and administrators? And, how do we find a balance with our own uncertain work plans this fall?

We don’t have all the answers, but our team at Sandlin Homes put together a guide to help families that are headed back to school and ready for a challenge. 

Be prepared

Whether your kids are headed back to school full-time, taking classes remotely or opting for a combination of the two, you should designate a spot now for schoolwork. 

Ideally, this is a quiet space that allows students to concentrate on reading assignments, video calls, research papers and whatever else this year might bring. That means plenty of light -- preferably natural -- to keep their eyes healthy. Add comfortable seating that supports their growing bodies throughout the day and properly-sized desks that give them room to work with supplies within reach.

Depending on your family’s floor plan and unique needs this might be a flex room, an extra bedroom or even a desk in each kid’s individual bedroom. Finding the right fit is especially important if there will be multiple kids and an adult or two all doing a fair amount of work throughout the semester.

Somewhere near their workspace can also double as a drop zone for backpacks, homework and masks to limit drama and hurried searches in the morning. A few of their favorite snacks to grab and go are an easy addition too. 

Be patient

Flexibility will be key this year. Depending on how the semester progresses, education plans may change and your own work schedule may too. Anticipating the challenges now will make future adjustments much easier. 

Planning ahead -- and including the children in your plans when appropriate -- can help ease tensions for everyone. Setting curfews, planning meals, decorating their workspace and even picking afternoon activities to mark the end of the school day are a few good options for the family to bond in the next few weeks. 

Of course, planning ahead might mean shopping for a different setup too if the next months do not go as planned. If that is the case, our team can help you find a better fit with one of our Quick Move-In Homes or our Build On Your Lot program. Call (817) 281-3509 or fill out the form on our site to schedule a tour of any of our available homes or models.