Learning from home:
When the parents are also the teachers

Author: M. Dickinson

Now that parental roles have temporarily changed to academic educators, it’s imperative to get organized before the new school year begins. Keep in mind that first and foremost, you are the parent, and that teaching from a syllabus is only a profession you osmotically obtained.

The start of the new school year is just around the corner and getting ready for it includes organizing your workspace. If possible, have a space dedicated to teaching, even better if you can separate the area from any distractions.

In addition to physically making changes to your home, it’s crucial to establish a schedule close to what the child or children have in a school environment. Homeschooling children during a pandemic is undoubtedly no easy task, and it involves juggling office work, housekeeping, and family management.

Though virtual school may seem laid-back in many ways, teachers expect from their students the same amount of classroom participation. Students are required to follow the rules, meet deadlines, and dress according to the established school code.

So, create a routine, set physical boundaries, and keep track of your children’s progress. If within your means, purchase a room divider that will keep distractions at bay.

• Turn off the phone during class-time.
• Mind the time; kids need a break, and so do you. Take breaks!
• Make sure that kids do their homework during study time or after virtual school time.
• Avoid ‘he said/she said’ and stick to your plan and the teacher’s guidelines.

When it comes to lunch and snacks, make those meals nutritious yet enjoyable.

• Vegetable                   
• Fruit
• Protein
• A small portion of carbs

By the time recess rolls around, you will need a breather. The school’s Physical Education teacher may have excellent ideas but, if you need more check out Activity Books. During the students’ recess, engage with them, be part of the team.

There will be days when your students will act out and refuse to follow instructions. These are the challenging times, and most parents and teachers need to take a similar attitude to discipline.

Some good practices to remember are:

What to do and not to do

As social beings, parents and teachers should encourage students to engage in age-appropriate virtual groups and outdoor activities while maintaining at a safe distance from each other.

Some fun and safe activities for kids and teens may include stargazing, cycling, hiking, and throwing frisbees.  Most important of all, enjoy being an essential part of your child’s education experience. You will feel a sense of satisfaction. Helping your children obtain the education necessary for a brilliant tomorrow.