Guest post by Joyce Wilson
Teacherspark.org
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, an increasing number of children are engaging in remote learning, either fully or partially. Teachers, kids, and parents are all adapting to this new reality. As a loving parent, you want your child to get the education they deserve, even in these extraordinary circumstances. Luckily, there are resources available to help. Adventures with Mom invites you to check out the following tricks, and tools to ensure your little one is getting the most out of their schooling.
Create a learning-friendly environment.
Teachers already have to struggle to engage little ones via video chat. Make their jobs easier by giving kids a distraction-free zone where they can easily focus. Setting aside a desk in a quiet corner that’s just for your child will help them feel important and motivate them. Stock up on all the school supplies they need, like crayons and notebooks.
You don’t have to spend big bucks on a children’s desk. 6 Clever Sisters points out that there are easy do-it-yourself kids’ workspaces you can create, for example, by simply painting a piece of wood and adding some IKEA furniture legs. Hang your child’s calendar with their class and activity schedule over the desk so they have their own ‘work’ space.
Set a schedule and stick to it.
Consistent routines are comforting for kids. Having their schooldays shaken up by remote learning can be confusing. To counteract this, set a strict home-learning routine. Routines create stability, encourage independence, and even promote family bonding. Create a calendar where you note all your child’s remote learning course times. Build your supplemental schedule of activities around this.
For example, if your child has classes in the mornings, you might start the day by getting them up, dressed, and fed, and then going for a quick walk together to get their brains and bodies alert. After they finish classes for the day, you can make time for some of the activities mentioned below.
Engage your child in fun (yet educational) activities.
When class time is done for the day, engage your child in some fun activities. There are many pleasant ways you can inject some subtle learning into their day. For example, you can try baking together. This teaches kids about everything from chemistry to measurements.
Coding is another option. It can help kids’ mathematics, writing and critical thinking skills, and they learn to approach problems systematically. Game-style learning opportunities can be found through CodeMonkey and Minecraft.
Make time for breaks.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been stressful for everybody, kids included. Include downtime in your little one’s calendar schedule and make it clear that this is a time for them to do something they enjoy. Playing outside can help kids clear their heads and provide valuable physical activity that helps them grow strong, for example.
And although you want to limit your youngster’s screen time, video games are another great way for children to unwind. Psychology Today reports that gaming helps improve basic mental ability. For example, kids learn how to make split-second decisions and multi-task. Just make sure your internet connection can handle the needed bandwidth, get a sturdy stand so your kids don’t have to hold their tablet all the time, and purchase a backup charger in case something happens to the one you already have.
Although adapting to remote learning can be a challenge, it’s still possible for your child to thrive in these new circumstances. The above tips will help you and your child get into the groove and make the most of the situation.
Photo Credit: Pexels.com
Adventures with Mom 