As we learn how to better handle the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, many classrooms have resumed or are planning on resuming face-to-face instruction. However, virtual learning continues to grow in popularity and is not going away anytime soon.
Every child is different and responds to virtual instruction in a unique way. Some children enjoy the flexibility of being at home, while others find it nearly impossible to focus. There is frankly no one-size-fits-all solution for virtual learning, but we do have some useful tips to share as you and your child prepare for a new and different school year.
5 ways you can help your child succeed in the virtual classroom
1. Establish a learning environment for them.
If you have any experience working from home, you are already familiar with the fact that your home can present a lot of distractions that wouldn’t exist in an office or school.
You can help your child focus on their studies by designating a specific zone for them to complete their work in. You don’t have to go all out here or spend a huge chunk of your budget on office furniture. You can easily work with your existing space– focusing on making the area quiet and free of clutter. If you’re able to, it will be helpful for your child if their work area is separate from the playroom or TV room.
Your child will have an easier time if they have a designated space where they can go into “school mode” and focus.
2. Maintain a schedule that includes breaks.
Does your child’s school have a strict schedule? If so, you need to be prepared to help them stick to it. If their virtual learning program is more adaptable, create a plan that works for your family and try not to stray from it. If you can closely replicate a traditional school day, your child has a greater chance of success. It’s a proven fact that routines help kids thrive, and it will also prevent your child from feeling like they are on an extended vacation.
Include physical and mental breaks in your daily schedule so everyone can refuel and refresh. Mental health breaks are important, even while studying from home! Use your break times to encourage your child to get some exercise, have a dance break, or eat a nutritious snack!
3. Make sure your child can log into any virtual learning platform before class begins.
The last thing you want is for your child to miss the start of class because they need to update Zoom or forgot their password to their learning portal.
You can avoid this by setting up your child’s computer or tablet BEFORE class starts. Make sure they have their logins or passwords written down in a place that’s easy to find and that they understand how to access the right apps and websites.
Making sure your child is prepared for class ahead of time will allow your student to relax and focus on learning! And if you find that they’re running into an issue, you have enough time to contact their teacher for support.
4. Maintain open lines of communication with your child’s teacher.
Communication with your children’s teacher is always important, but when it comes to virtual learning, it’s essential.
At the beginning of the school year, you can introduce yourself to them and let them know that you’re invested in your child’s academic success and ready to listen and respond positively to any challenges that arise.
One benefit of online learning is that it becomes a lot easier to determine whether your child is struggling since you basically have a front-row seat to their classroom! If you notice your child falling behind, don’t hesitate to contact their teacher to create a plan of action.
5. Establish times for feedback sessions.
It might sound obvious, but don’t be afraid to ask your child how their learning is going!
Find out what’s working for them and what isn’t. Do they feel comfortable in their study space? Is there a repeated distraction that’s popping up? Are they having difficulty navigating one of their learning portals?
While we all want to support our children to the best of our ability, it’s also important to encourage independence when possible. Online learning has its challenges, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to help children take an active role in their own education. Studying from home typically comes with more freedom than the traditional school experience, so if something’s not working, you can change it!
We hope that these tips will help you navigate the upcoming school year. If you have more questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to Care360 Physical Therapy for pediatric therapy services. Our team can help you formulate answers to problems that seem too big to handle alone.
