With schools still closed due to COVID-19 and students learning at home, it is more important than ever to help kids with their education. The loss of social life and the difference in online education is a heavy hit for all students. However, there are many things that you can do to help soften the blow. Here is how to support student learning at home as parents.
Setting a routine
A good routine is a hard thing to define and develop. Just as your children are different from other kids, their routine should reflect this. That might mean you have them wake up earlier or take a later lunch. Maybe you spend more time on science or you do homework right after dinner. When you find something that works you should try your best to stick to it. It might take a bit to find a good match for your specific circumstance, but it will be worth it in the end.
Check on progress
Although there are some deficits to learning at home, there is one huge benefit: tailored learning. With your child at home, you can check in with them much more readily to see where they are excelling and where they need more help. Things like MAP testing or even simple communication can quickly tell you what your child needs. This is a lot harder to achieve when kids are learning in-person, as your child will be in a separate place for most of the day.
Deepening relationships
With the kids are at home, you have a new opportunity to really connect with them. Schools are very useful for education, but it does require them to be away from home for most of the day. Now you can spend a lot more time with your children and really deepen that connection between you. For many families, having game nights and sharing lunches was difficult to do, as everyone’s schedules conflicted. Take this chance to really connect with your children and strengthen your family bonds.
Due to COVID-19, this time can be hard for students and parents alike. With online classes and a lack of social options for both children and adults, it can feel hopeless and draining. As such, it is important to remember that there is some good that can come out of this—if you take advantage of the situation, this new normal won’t seem so bad. By learning how to support student learning at home and implementing new methods, you can come out with a stronger family and still ensure your kids receive a good education.
