Tips For Parents In The Age Of Online Learning
To say we were unprepared for online learning is an understatement.
These are unprecedented times with many parents and their kids navigating the online learning world for the first time. For some kids, they are learning entirely online, whereas others are in a hybrid model. I’ve worked with countless families who feel confused and unsure if they are doing the right thing for their kids. For you parents, you are doing the best with what you have. Remember not to be too hard on yourself and be kind to yourself as you are learning how to be an educator in the middle of a pandemic.
Here are some tips for making the most of online learning:
Communicate often with your child’s teacher. This is especially important when your child is receiving services through an IEP or 504 plan. Talk to your teacher about the challenges you are facing and see if they have any advice. Ask if any of the accommodations (e.g., speech therapy, small group instruction) your child was previously receiving through the school are available with online learning.
Set up a space just for learning. A dedicated work space will help reduce distractions and increase the chances of your child learning. This doesn’t have to be a home office. It could be anywhere that there is a table to write on and is away from the tv.
Develop a routine. Create a visual schedule and stick to it! Write down when assignments will be and build in time for breaks and play. Be sure that your child can see the schedule so they know what to expect.
Start with the more difficult assignments. Saving easier assignments for the end of the day when kids are tired and have less mental energy often works better for finishing assignments.
As always, you know your child best and know specific strategies that work for them! Be sure to incorporate those into your online learning plan.
