As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, back-to-school season looks a bit different for young children. Regardless of whether you're still helping your child with distance learning or sending them back to a classroom in-person, there are a few techniques to make the transition simpler for everybody.
Strategies For Successful Online School
Numerous schools have opted to start the year with online classes. For elementary age kids, remaining focused on at-home learning can be a challenge. To keep your kid on track, try a couple of the following tips:
Set up a dedicated school space. Carving out a physical space specifically for school can help your child concentrate. Make sure that this region is free from distractions and is different from where they as a rule stare at the TV or play games.
Create a daily schedule. If you are working at home while your kid is attending to class, a timetable is crucial to keeping everyone on track. Keep established bedtimes and school hours, just like in non-COVID times. Give children clear expectations about getting work done. It can also help to set up a system, for example, putting a red or green sign on your office door, so your children know when they can interrupt on your work time and when they have to pause.
Harness the power of technology. Most computers, tablets and cell phones have accessibility features that can be useful for kids learning at home. Read-aloud loud or text-to-speech capabilities can help struggling readers or writers, and closed caption settings may help kids who profit from visual over auditory learning.
Take breaks for family fun and exercise. Children have recess for a reason — standard exercise and movement can improve their concentration, memory and problem solving abilities. Also, the same goes for guardians! Take a midday break together to go on a quick walk around the neighborhood or play in the backyard for 30 minutes. Chances are, you'll both return refocused and refreshed.
Connect with your child’s teacher. Teachers are navigating a new normal as well, and they want to help your child succeed. If you need clarity about assignments or if your child is struggling with schoolwork, don’t hesitate to reach out over email, phone or even set up a video conference. And remember, we’re all trying to get through this, so an encouraging text or email to a teacher is a great way to remind him or her that they’re appreciated!
Staying COVID-19 Safe During In-Person School
When children do return to in-person learning, it will inevitably be under a new set of guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. Be proactive about teaching your children to protect themselves and others by:
Spacing themselves from others, even their friends
Washing hands well and often
Wearing a face covering
Explain to your children why these behaviors are necessary. Emphasize we can all work together to to keep each other safe. As a parent, it's also important to monitor any symptoms of sickness in your household and keep your kid at home if they feel sick.
Your child’s reaction to going back to school could vary. Some kids will feel excited to see their friends again, while some may feel afraid or uncertain about all the changes. Help your child feel prepared by reassuring them that extra safety measures can help us avoid the spread of infection. When you stay calm and proactive about your child’s emotional well-being, they feel safe to share their feelings.
Navigating Coronavirus Challenges
Being ready for the unexpected is more important than ever this school year. Navigating school during COVID-19 is a challenge for us all, so attempt to practice patience and empathy — with your kids, your children’s educators and yourself.
It's also important to make sure your children’s wellbeing is in the best state. Their yearly wellness exam and vaccinations are significant approaches to be certain they are prepared for whatever comes this year.
Comments