How to support your child struggling with remote classes?
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One of the most challenging aspects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is that millions of students have been forced out of the classroom and into the online space. While this has been an easy transition for some students, other kids have struggled with this type of learning model. Here are five ways that you can support your child if they are struggling with virtual learning.
Create a productive learning space
You cannot expect your student to perform well in school if they do not have a productive and comfortable learning space set up in your home. As a parent, it is your job to ensure that they have a space where learning is conducive.
In addition to a comfortable desk and chair, you need to provide the necessary tools and equipment needed for success. What you need largely depends on the age of your student. If your child is using a laptop, they will likely require a protective case. You can personalize this protection by ordering custom laptop sleeves that motivate your child to do their best. Get the perfect sleeve in a style that your student will appreciate.
Provide a social outlet
Just because your child is still learning in a virtual space, it does not mean that they do not need the outlet provided by socialization with their peers. Your student will get more out of the school experience if they feel as if they are making friends and connecting with others.
It is understandable if your child is struggling with school because they no longer feel connected to their classmates. Make an effort to look into alternative ways for your child to socialize and feel as if they are a part of the community. Good ideas include socially distanced playdates, outside activities with peers, or other video chats.
Schedule brain breaks
Even adults have difficulties staring at a screen all day. You can imagine how difficult this may be for some children. You can help to combat the monotony of online learning by scheduling regular brain breaks during your student’s online school day. Not only will these breaks provide a much-needed mental break, but they will also give them the energy to continue with the rest of the day.
You will earn bonus points if you implement these breaks while encouraging them to be physically active. Or better yet, encourage them to get outside and enjoy the fresh air during these breaks from the screen.
Implement a schedule
Most kids thrive under a schedule. Students generally fare better if they have an established routine that they can anticipate each day. Especially during this time of great uncertainty, your child may benefit from the predictability of a schedule.
You will see the most success if you attempt a schedule that closely mimics what they experienced with the in-person school. This means not letting your child sleep in too late or stay up past their usual bedtime. It is a good idea to observe when your child has the most focus and schedule the toughest tasks during this time. For example, if you notice that your child is struggling during the late afternoon hours, try scheduling an easier activity such as art during this time.
Be flexible
Above all, it is important to remember that this is an unprecedented time in history and in your child’s educational career. If there was ever a time to be flexible, this is it. This also may be the time in which you give yourself the grace to let some priorities go.
This time is just a small snapshot in time of your child’s overall academic years. Do not stress if your student is struggling with online learning. This model is certainly not for everyone. Being flexible and working with your child’s strengths instead of belaboring their weaknesses will yield the best results. Be sure to think outside of the box to find ways that you can support your child’s learning throughout this time.
These five tips will help you to support your child’s online learning endeavors. Every student is unique in their challenges, making it important that you create an environment that is specific to your child’s individual needs and learning style.