Making Plans for Virtual Learning

Preparing to virtual school for the first time can be a daunting task. Unlike homeschooling, in which the parents have the final say in choosing a curriculum, virtual school is a different experience. Students will complete curriculum and activities based on the school district’s planning, and students and parents have to adjust to those expectations. Virtual schooling does not have to be stressful, however. These tips can help to make it a more palatable and productive experience for everyone.

Create a dedicated learning environment.

One of the best ways to help your children learn as they face a once-in-a-century situation is to set up an area in your home that is for student learning. While some people may have plenty of space to consider, others may need to be creative. Find a room – or even a corner – where schooling may happen. Instead, focus on getting a basic, solid desk is vital. Also, all students should have a computer that fits the needs of that student’s school. Add to this desk basic school supplies, including pens, pencils, paper, binder, notebooks, highlighters, and notebooks. While the needs for students may vary, getting these basic supplies and organizing them will help parents to be prepared for the school year.

Work with everyone in the house to make a clear schedule.

Having a schedule laid out for everyone in the family can help to keep everyone on the same page. The schedule does not need to be strict but can be a loose idea of how the day should go. While it may be tempting to let everyone do what he/she/they wants, coming up with at least a rough outline can keep everyone on task.

Add physical activity and brain breaks into the daily schedule.

Physical activity is vital for children who are doing remote learning whether they are in kindergarten or high school. That activity does not have to be formal. Walking the dog around the block, kicking a soccer ball around the backyard for 10 minutes, or dancing along to a YouTube video can help calm both the body and mind to allow for better learning. Brain breaks are one of teachers’ best tools to keep kids on track. While parents are virtual learning with their children, it will be vital to ensure that they are taking a break, whether that means watching a silly YouTube video, getting out their “wiggles” for 30 seconds, or having 15 minutes to walk the dog.

Give everyone grace.

Few of us were alive during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. That means we’re facing something that very few of us have seen in our lifetimes. No one on any school board, county commission, or town council expected to deal with the issues of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic when running for office. Instead, most people in decision-making capacities are in new territory. While that may mean some people can display new decision-making skills, it also means that it is simple to criticize people. Instead, work within your family unit to give grace to people who are trying to figure out the best solution to a difficult problem. Modeling this behavior not only is beneficial to your child right now, but it can serve as an important lesson for the future. By following these basic tips, it is possible to do remote school in a dynamic and successful way. Follow your children’s lead in determining what will or will not work for your family. Also, don’t be afraid of making changes if the initial schedule is not working. Just work together to get into a rhythm that works – and remember that unprecedented times call for extra doses of patience.