Distance Learning 101

This pandemic is still very much present, that means distance learning for the bulk of us.  The educator in me is elated that there's much more structure and engagement with students by utilizing zoom, but let's be honest, the parent in me is just as excited.  Not just for the sense of normality for my kids, but for my sanity.  I'm presented with a slight problem however, as I'm sure many of you are. WORK! Whether you work from home or on site, juggling the two is overwhelming, and damn near impossible.  I'll be working on site for half the day starting TOMORROW!  With a teenager that's become a bit of a pro at this distance learning game, I feel confident.  Having a four year old entering pre-k, my anxiety is at an all time high.  Being the good OCD mama that I am, I had to come up with a plan, and so I did.

Tip 1: Observe the way your child learns.

My oldest retains information with repetition, my youngest is a hands-on , repetitive learner.  If he does something on his own, over and over, he'll pick up the lesson.  That means Type-A hovering mom, has to be much more hands off than usual.  We're all learning during the pandemic.  It's also helpful if you communicate this to their teachers.

Tip 2: Create space.

This goes without saying, but create a study space for your kids that will promote focus, and cut down on distractions.  For most kids, that is NOT and I repeat, NOT their bedrooms.  Clear some space at the kitchen table, a desk in the living room, if there's enough space, even split up their bedrooms, BUT be prepared to remove their favorite toys.

Tip 3: Chill out helicopter parents

For older kids (5 and up), as much as you'll want to...don't hover.  Allow their teachers to do just that.  Be present and aware, but leave the room.  Keep an ear out, and check in periodically, but step awaaaaay from the chrome books.

Tip 4: Plan ahead!

There are plenty of planning options out there for you.  Part of teaching is getting kids ready for next steps.  There is a certain advantage of this distance learning thing.  You're technically getting your kiddos ready to be responsible for their own time management, that means you have to be responsible as well.  Take a few moments on a Sunday evening to view upcoming assignments/projects for both you and your child.  Map out as much of your week as possible. I love this digital planner I nabbed months ago and oh boy has it come in handy these last 5 months.  Should I do a flip through?

Tip 5: Make studying fun!!!

With shortened days, there is less hands on time, so it's up to us as parents to fit that in somehow.  The key is, not making it boring or even obvious.  Take things that they like doing and make lessons out of it.  I made brownies with my 16 year old and threw in some physics facts, painted letters and numbers with my 4 year old, and used exercise for both to throw in some math.  I can use reps with the oldest, and just ask how many we did to keep his calculations sharp, and simply counting jumping jacks with the baby as practice.

Tip 6: Read up!

No matter the age, reading is imperative.  Don't just buy random books and give them to your kids and expect them to read.  Talk to them.  Read book descriptions with them and select books.  We started a family book club.  The weekly discussions mean I get an idea of my oldest's comprehension, which is important, as minority boys often fall behind in this area.  The little one isn't left out, I've carved out time for us to read together each night before bed.  If your child is young but reading on their own, carve out a little extra time and have them read to you.  Again, carve out EXTRA time.

Tip 7: Writing is just as fundamental

If you can read well, you can write well, and vice versa.  Whether it's practicing penmanship with the littles, creating books with the older kids, or having teens write poems or stories, fit it into your life some how.  It doesn't have to be hours of work.  It can be quick games, like "Next word" or an art project, but it is important that this skill that often gets forgotten.

Tip 8: Printable are your friends!

Even as an educator, I'm not creating lesson plans for my toddler.  Nope! I'm utilizing sites like teacherspayteachers.com, and thisreadingmama.com to get ideas and free printable projects. I do this on Sundays and map out my days.  They're especially helpful for moments that I need to multi-task.  He can be at the kitchen table coloring, painting or crafting while I make dinner. It's important to have tasks that your kids can do on their own, but you can still over see without physically helping them.

Tip 9: Be Flexible, Be Patient!

Things don't always go as planned, moods aren't always the best, and excuse my French but...shit happens.  Move on from it and know that it's ok! Perfection isn't as important as solidifying good study habits and self-esteem. That's all I'm going to say about that.

Tip 10: Take care of you!

As the saying goes, happy parents raise happy children.  Do some yoga, meditate, have a glass of wine if you need to, do that face mask, buy that hand scrub you've been eyeing for a while now...do it all, and do it in abundance, because this road is not going to be easy.