As online schooling has become the new normal, children and parents are struggling to adjust to the format and how to make this new school year a success.
Here are some tips that may help your child during the school day:
1-have a designated area for your child to work that is set up like it would be in school (e.g., a desk or table)
2-provide regular snacks throughout the day to increase brain function, maintain metabolism, and create energy in the body
3-have regular exercise breaks that include standing, walking, yoga, etc.
4-create a schedule for the school day including breaks and homework time
5-blue light glasses to reduce eye strain due to increased screen time
6-schedule fun activities such as a video chat with friends or a bike ride
7-encourage your child to attend their teacher’s office hours for additional support
Parents need support too as this is a new experience for us all. Below are some suggestions on how to take care of yourself:
8-schedule breaks in your work day to check on your child’s progress with schoolwork as this will decrease the need to do so in the evening which is a busier time (dinner, nighttime routine)
9-give yourself at least 15 minutes per day to do something enjoyable for yourself (take a bath, gardening, watch a TV show, read a book)
10-have at least 20 minutes a day of debriefing time with another adult (friend, spouse, parent) to process through the challenges and successes for the day
11-advocate for your child if they are needing more support from the teacher
Online schooling may seem easier in some respects but it requires more self-motivation for children and more hands-on support from parents. It is necessary to take care of your overall well-being in order to deal with the frustrations and challenges that will come with online schooling and relying on technology. Patience will be in high demand. When in doubt, take a deep breath and refocus on the task at hand.
Michelle A. Culver, LMFT
