As schools begin to reopen this March, our children face a future in which online learning will remain a large part of their curriculum. We at AskBee understand that this poses a challenge for many parents as they take on more responsibility over their children’s learning than ever before. So here are a couple of tips on how to make the best of the situation!
- Reduce Distractions
Consider setting up a comfortable, clutter-free study space in a quieter part of your home for your child. Ensure the area has good internet connection and is dedicated to school-focused activities. Remove all distractions (i.e. toys, non-class required devices) from the child’s surrounding study space till their class is complete.
- Establish Routines
Having routines is beneficial not just for your child to transition between physical school and online learning, but it will also allow you to better plan your workday.
Try to keep your child’s home timetable or routine as close to their “physical school” schedule as possible. This will allow for a smoother transition between the weeks. We encourage you to create this home timetable with your child so they feel included in the process and in turn encouraged to stay on track!
- Don’t Be Discouraged, Be Flexible
Your child will always turn to you when facing a problem. Don’t get frustrated or guilty if you’re unable to attend to them immediately - you’re not a full time teacher. Set up boundaries by carving out time in the day (i.e. your lunch hour) where you can work on their homework with them. This way they’ll know to compile all the tough questions and bring them to you during the allocated hour(s) instead of approaching you multiple times throughout the day.
- Prioritise Mental Health
Allow your child to take short “brain breaks” between tasks to prevent burn out. These 10 min “brain breaks” could vary from screen time to a workout or even meditation. Every child is different so figure out what works best for your child.
Be generous with the positive feedback during this time. At school, your child is surrounded with support from their teachers and counselors to their classmates so be generous with the encouragement when at home.
Be kind to yourself and take breaks too. You’re a parent, not a trained educator so don’t be hard on yourself if you’re unable to assist your child. Whenever you’re being harsh toward yourself, ask yourself this - Would you be saying this to another parent in the same situation?
- You Need Support Too
Have open communication with your child’s teachers. They’re in the best position to advise you on workarounds as they know your child well too. Be honest if you’re unable to assist with the homework assignment or are struggling with technology. Teachers have plenty of experience with these issues by now and may even be able to share methods that have worked for other parents.
Set up a WhatsApp or Telegram group with other parents from your child’s class. Use this group to ask questions and offer solutions to other parents who are in the same boat as yourself. A support system is vital during this time!
