Parents have been thrown into a whole new world as a result of the ongoing pandemic. Not only have some workplaces closed their physical locations, but we've also seen schools resort to remote learning. So in addition to parents working from home, they're also helping with their children's studies in a whole new way. This is a brand new territory for many parents, and we know it's stressful however, we will get through this. Continue reading to learn a few tips and tricks on teaching your kids in this "new" world!
Creating Routines & Schedules
Don't expect to mirror your normal routine when everyone is leaving the house for work/school while at home. Do, however, create a schedule that works for your family. While at home, you may not get yourself or your kids up as early as you normally do, which is fine. But you do want to set a time where everyone gets up, has breakfast, and is dressed as if they were leaving the house. Whatever morning schedule you create, make sure to stick with it, and be consistent throughout the school week.
After creating your morning schedule, next is to set up the routine for the day. Figure out the amount of school work that needs to be completed, while creating a set time that will be allocated to school work only. Remember to factor in breaks for lunch, study hall, recess, etc. in your schedule.
To the best of your ability, try to resemble your child's school day as much as possible. At the same time, don't stress yourself out trying to recreate your child's school schedule perfectly. Give yourself a break and know that you're doing your best considering the circumstances.
Distraction-Free Space
With the schedule of the day established, next is to create a workspace for your kids. This doesn't need to be an entire room. Think of it like this, you would have an area to do your work (if you're working from home), so your child should have that same kind of space. Wherever your kids will be working, eliminate any distractions such as TV's, cell phones, etc. Again you're trying to recreate a typical school day. So if TV's aren't a part of your child's normal school day, why should it be a part of at-home learning?
Breaks, Breaks, Breaks
When you think back to being in school, you didn't spend 6-8 hours straight, doing just school work. Think of the times spent going from class to class, getting a chance to move around, and socialize a bit. Give your kids that same opportunity, whether it's letting them stretch or have a snack. Allow them to have those moments to take a break.
Explore Other Activities Besides Schoolwork
To prevent your kids from getting anxious about being indoors all day, let them go out to get fresh air. If you have a backyard, let them go out to play soccer, basketball, jump rope, etc. You can even walk with them around your neighborhood.
If you don't have a backyard or you're not comfortable with them being outside, there are plenty of things to do indoors. Thanks to the Internet, you can find various indoor activities that motivate your kids to move their bodies. Whether it's dancing, exercises (kid-friendly, of course), creating your own game, the possibilities are endless!
Home Learning Will Be Shorter
It's important to note that schooling from home will be shorter than a typical school day. When you eliminate an entire classroom of other students, no transitioning from class to class, and other distractions, your child is probably going to get their work done a lot sooner. Don't feel as though you have to give them extra work to fill uptime.
Our last piece of advice is, be easy on yourself. Learning to work and teach from home is something we didn't expect 2020 to bring us. We know it may be difficult to see beyond this pandemic but, we have to stay calm and hopeful.
What other pieces of advice can you give to parents who are teaching from home? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!