“This is not how I wanted to spend a week’s vacation!”
Contact tracing forced a friend’s elementary aged child to begin temporary virtual learning. Another friend chose to start virtual learning at the beginning of the year. Either way, let’s discuss the first 4 things to do.
I know! Create a warm environment with no distractions. Use common household items as manipulatives. Include opportunities to continue peer relationships and monitor mental health.
Reality check: that is not happening. The two year old screams for a tv show, while the dog runs around trying to get someone to play. Toys are everywhere and cause distractions.
Let’s talk about the first 4 things to do to maximize the time.
- Mindset
This time is temporary, hopefully. As the parent, you may feel inconvenienced and frustrated that the school required the child to stay home. Yet, imagine what the child sees. The child or children interact with a parent that is usually at work. Breakfast and lunch offer a time to reconnect. Before the shutdown, I said, “I would like a chance to be at home with my kids, while they are young.” Well, I certainly earned that time and much more. Frequently, I reminded myself of the positives of the situation, when I felt agitated. Reshape this time to something the children remember fondly, not a chaotic mess.
- Passwords
Before starting virtual learning, perhaps at the beginning of the year, explore the different apps and learning management systems on the device. Many times at the beginning of the year students engage in discussion on the passwords and how different things work. Definitely take an interest in this. This removes the temptation to say “I don’t remember my password.” For purposes of monitoring the activities and ensuring the safety of the online environment making a list of passwords presents a crucial opportunity to make a connection.
- Physical space
While each home offers a different amount of quiet space, carving a place to work helps to make the space more engaging. Next, take a few minutes to personalize the space. Something as simple as a few encouraging sticky notes make the space more welcoming. Ideally, the child works at a desk or table appropriate to his or her size. Think of a kindergartener at a big desk versus a table made for kids.
- Schedule with breaks
Research shows that starting the day with a planned schedule sets the tone for the entire day. The appearance of the schedule varies depending on the age of the child. A younger child may benefit from a visual schedule, with a visual timer, like the one shown here. This allows a younger child the ability to see how much time remains. On the other hand, older children and teens prefer time slots. At 9:30 we will stop and do a project. Regardless of the method, develop the schedule, plan breaks, and stick with it. Setting and alarm on the computer or phone offers a reminder. This shared break time also emphasizes the importance of doing things together and building a stronger relationship. A break also provides a needed opportunity to rest the eyes and energize the body.
Research shows that doing these types of things leads to success in a home virtual environment. If you need more tools and suggestions sign up for a free email list of other research based ideas.