For parents & guardians
As schools pivot to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents and guardians find themselves having to create a learning environment for their children at home. As a first step, it’s important to follow the direction from your child’s school on technology, online instruction and other critical services that your school system provides.
We’ve provided some additional guidance below to help keep your children engaged and learning.
How to prepare for remote learning
Technology
- Your school may already be using online tools for learning. If not, they will likely specify the software your child will use for remote learning.
- If your school is using web conferencing software, the good news is that it can be accessed on a variety of devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets and phones.
- Depending on your web connection, it may be advisable to turn off video at times when bandwidth becomes low.
- Your child can use a photo of him or herself (an avatar), so that other students and the teacher can easily identify your child.
- Have your child sign-in to learning activities a few minutes ahead of time to minimize software setup and maximize class participation.
Environment
- Establish a quiet learning space in your home for your child to learn without disruption.
- If your child has independent assignments, try to adhere to a consistent schedule with learning activities planned throughout your child’s day.
- Stay in communication with your child’s teachers.
- If possible, schedule time with your child’s teacher on a regular basis to track progress.
- Contact teachers when you do not understand what is being asked of your child.
- Encourage your child to get up, move around, and take breaks.
Remember, it’s going to be messy (at least at first), but you and your children will get through it!
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