Change is difficult for people of all ages. And although children seem to adapt easier than adults to new situations, this pandemic time at home has been stressful for everyone.
So, as our kids are winding down this school semester at home, we want to help them succeed in their new learning environments. Below are some tips from Focus on the Family® for helping kids navigate their new world of e-learning.
School, but not school
Create an environment in the home where children feel safe and secure. It is important to consider where your child is developmentally and emotionally as you navigate e-learning. In this brave new world, be aware of the news and other media outlets that are broadcasting in the home. Some children can find this distressing.
Do not try to recreate the school environment at home. As you know, this time is causing an enormous transition for many. You will create your own rhythms that are in line with the personality of your family. The adjustments you make will fit your family better.
Build breaks into the day. E-learning can require long hours in front of the monitor. Some children will find staring at a screen for long hours difficult. Some may even experience headaches from the glare of the monitor. Make sure you plan breaks. There are even helpful glasses or screen covers that will help reduce eye strain.
Manage time wisely
Create a daily schedule. Have a centralized calendar in which you can place everyone’s daily schedule showing e-learning times and your work/meeting times. This will help everyone know the times when each member is available, when meetings are taking place, or when you will be inaccessible except in an extreme emergency. Also, delineate household chores and responsibilities. There is a tendency to graze and peer into the refrigerator quite frequently. Plan mealtimes.
Establish a daily routine. Routine is important. Routines provide a framework, comfort, and predictability in a chaotic world. Keeping bedtimes, morning routine, and meal-times consistent will help in normalizing life as you navigate this brave new world.
Be sure to play
Get outside. Play and exercise. Cabin fever may already be developing. We all need Vitamin D. As the weather begins to warm up, step outside. Go for walks and bike rides. We need to take care of our minds, body, and spirit. But please make sure you are following social distancing guidelines.
Schedule entertainment screen time. Computer gaming can be fun. However, it’s important to establish clear guidelines about when it is permitted in the home. Most importantly, electronic devices should be kept out of the bedroom during bedtime. These devices can disrupt or interfere with healthy sleep patterns.
Learning can be fun. Tap into the curiosities of your students during this time. For example, ask them if they could learn about anything… what would it be? Think outside the box as you navigate e-learning. Then, utilize resources like the Internet, educational programming, or order a science kit that may engage your student in new ways. Connect with your child’s teacher if additional resources are desired.
Treat family and yourself well
Engage in quality time. Although we are all home, during this time of e-learning, we will begin to fall into a certain rhythm these days. Plan intentional time in the day to actually be together. Talk together, play games, or find a hobby you can enjoy together. And lastly…
Be kind to yourself. You’ve got this. Most of all, there is no “best” way to do this. There will be days that are harder than others. Give yourself grace. If you or your student needs a break, then take one.
If you or your child need additional help dealing with the challenges of this season at home, please contact
the Babb Center for Counseling to schedule an appointment with one of our trained therapists (615-824-3772).