Millions of schoolchildren around the world have suddenly gone online and taken their studies to a virtual model. The Coronavirus crisis has forced many school systems to close and embark on a new way of learning via a computer. Digital learning has put parents on the task of managing their children’s education, and for some families, it can be a struggle. If your child is struggling, there are some things you can do to help them find more academic success in the virtual setting. Here are top strategies to support your children’s virtual learning.
Make a Daily Schedule
A top strategy that is often overlooked by parents is writing a daily schedule. Children in elementary and middle school thrive with routines and schedules. Take advantage of this by creating and posting a daily schedule for learning and other activities in a visible spot for your children. Include items such as lunch, recess, and class time to give kids a way to anticipate the next activity and adjust to the transition time.
Understand Your Child’s Academic Needs
Parents also need to be aware of their child’s academic needs, especially in reading and math. Some of this data is available from your child’s school or in their standardized test reports. It’s also possible to use data from outside testing sources, such as thei-Ready test. Testing helps give a snapshot of what your child may need help with and what your child does independently. This can give parents more power and guidance when working with their children on virtual learning assignments.
Provide a Suitable Workspace
Next, it’s important to have a suitable workspace for your child’s virtual learning lessons and assignments. Most virtual learning programs rely on computers, so be sure your child’s laptop or other device is up to the task. It’s also helpful to have a quiet, secluded area complete with a desk available for your child to focus. If there are multiple children completing tasks in the same household, keep them separated in their own workspace to minimize the number of distractions. Pets, toys, food, and other things that may interfere in learning must be kept away from their workspace.
Communicate With Teachers
Parents can also benefit from staying in touch with their children’s teachers throughout the virtual learning journey. Even though there may not be an in-person program, it is still worth it to join organizations like the PTA and be involved in the school community. Show up to virtual parent conferences and use email to ask questions about your child’s progress in class. Encourage your children to become involved in community activities at the school, such as clubs and volunteer organizations.
Download Academic Support Apps
If your child is experiencing some difficulty with math and reading skills and you’ve noticed some learning gaps, it’s a good idea to look for ways to offer academic support. There are many different apps available for download that provide guided practice in these skills, such as the i-Ready math and reading app. Virtual learning’s fast pace may require you to work with your child and help them catch up.
Create a Positive Environment
Finally, it’s best to create a positive, nurturing environment in your home to support your child’s virtual learning program. For many children, distance learning is a challenge. Offer plenty of grace to your kids so they thrive during this difficult time in their lives. Take lots of brain breaks and focus on what matters instead of stressing out over each individual assignment and grade. Give lots of praise to help motivate your children.
The new virtual learning stage has put parents on the task to help manage their children’s academic success. Try some of these strategies to give your child a greater chance of making progress in distance education and staying happy and healthy throughout the next few months.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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