As we welcome the month of April, our local schools have started rolling out distance learning programs. The amount of time each student is required to log in, complete virtual lessons and independent work vary greatly by age, school and grade. However, as parents, we can follow some simple steps at home to help set our children up for success during these challenging times. Please read our tips below.
1) Determine a daily schedule: A routine and structure will help students engage in their
learning. Build breaks into the day. Your child will be better able to complete school work if expectations are clear from the start. Remember distance learning will not always replicate a 6+ hour school day. Children in PreK-2nd grade are expected to complete an hour to two at the most. Grades 3-5 should be able to complete work in two-three hours. Middle and High School students may have more of a typical day, where they are on the computer meeting with teachers and doing independent work for five-six hours. See sample schedules here.
2) Create a learning space: Children need a comfortable, calm environment to learn. Establish a designated space for learning — ideally it will be quiet and separate from active, living spaces. It is best if siblings have their own learning spaces and headphones are used for online communication.
3) Consider the technological access and supervision of your home: Children should have the access needed to complete their designated tasks, but this should be supervised. Encourage students who have access to social media sites to turn off notifications during learning times. And, make sure students are taking breaks from screens to get fresh air and exercise!
4) Model Executive Functioning Skills: In order for children to feel some control during this time when everything feels different, model ways students can stay organized at home. Give them a daily and weekly schedule to complete–it is a great time to work on organizational skills for time management and task completions. This is a time to work together to figure out systems that work for your child(ren).
5) Communicate with educators: This is a great time to teach children of all ages the life skill of “self-advocacy”. Model and encourage students to email teachers with questions when they arise. Be mindful of the fact many teachers are learning how to teach virtually while managing their own children at home. It is indeed a stressful time for all of us and if we show empathy and work together, we can have excellent results!
In addition, our educators at LS Tutors possess the knowledge and experience to host virtual sessions, so please reach out to us if we can help your student navigate the world of virtual learning.
Stay Healthy,
Lori Solovey
Owner, LS Tutors