MPS and many other school districts are preparing for an interesting school year. The norm is out the window and the new way of learning is approaching faster than ever. As we lead into this “phase-in reopening”, there are many things to consider since the phase 1 of 3 is full remote learning.
As the spread of the coronavirus decreases, phase 2, hybrid learning, will go into effect where students will return to school 2 days a week for face-to-face learning and 3 days of virtual classes. Phase 3 will allow students to return to school for face-to-face learning 5 days a week once it’s safe to do so.
While many people disagree with this decision, others find it imperative that this happens. Either way now is the time to prepare for what is to come. The surveys are in and the decision has been made.
This decision may bring about a bit of pressure and stress, especially since most parent are still required to work throughout this pandemic, however this stress can be reduced if the right precautions are taken. Instead of allowing this school year to overwhelm you as a parent, let’s plan accordingly. It’s always better to be proactive rather than reactive.
After having an open conversation with the public regarding this topic I’ve come up with a list of things parents can do to stay ahead of the game right now. These ideas are nearly a recommendation for the parents entering this innovative style school year.
Learn the Software
As parents, right now is the time to browse through the software and sites kids will be using for their 2020-21 learning experience. Getting familiar with the sites ahead of time will reduce confusion in the long run. This includes Classroom Dojo and others. It’s important to know how to communicate with the teachers prior to classes starting.
Create a Space
Learning from home can be a challenge if home feels like home during school hours. Therefore creating a small space conducive for learning can go a long way. It will help to condition the kids mind for learning. Clear an area, hang up inspirational quotes. Set books close by. This will send a signal to your child’s brain that when they are in that area, their job is to learn.
Set a Schedule
Know what time class is in session and plan for breaks. Make time for lunch and small snacks. This will help the kids get into a routine that is still comfortable for them to keep focus.
Discover Learning Styles
Yep. You’re officially more than a parent. You are Superwoman/Superman without the cape. No seriously, you just took a new job as an instructor and it’s important to know how your child learns. Is your child a visual learner, auditory learner, reading/writing learner, or kinesthetic? There are many sites online that have free tests for finding your learning style. Take the time to learn.
Practice Patience
This is a new learning experience for everyone. If your child is having difficulties, whether it be with the material or focusing, it doesn’t mean they’re a bad kid. Be patient with your child. Don’t yell and scream at them for every wrong thing they do. Give them time to adjust. Communicate effectively.
Create a Reward System
If you’re not in the industry of teaching, you may not know that classrooms typically have rewards for good work and good behavior. You can have fun with this. Plan something special after the first day or week of online learning.
Connect with Other Parents
Not everyone is tech savvy, nor was everyone made to help teach a course. If you build a small community of parents who can help each other out with the kids, assisting will be a bit easier. That way what you don’t understand, someone else will. Although we are social distancing, we are still in this together.
Get Kids Face-Mask Familiar
Teach your child to wear a face mask for a long period of time. This will soon be the norm and you want to be sure that your child takes the face mask covering seriously. Teach them before phase 2 hits. That way they will already be comfortably prepared.
Change the Scenery
Have fun with this new way of learning. Don’t try to conform to the traditional in-school way; for we are far from that. Let this be an opportunity to practice responsibility. Let this be a lesson if priority. As uncomfortable as this may seem, there’s still life skills being built daily. Change the scenery when you can. Learn outdoors some days. Move around. Have fun with courses in any way that you can.
Ask Questions Now
Ask Questions! Ask Questions! Ask Questions! Now! Now is the time to ask questions. If you wait to ask questions once the school year begins, there’s a high chance the phone will be ringing off the hook.
So again, stay ahead of the game and make your calls now. Stay ready. Stay engaged. And stay encouraged! Your child needs you, like never before!
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