Here’s how to manage your child’s online classes this fall
School is back in session … sort of. After a season of quarantine, staycations and perpetual uncertainty about the future, parents of school-aged children have taken on new challenges.
With new systems, guidelines and schedules for virtual, hybrid and in-person learning, here are some tips on managing time and activities smoothly for the entire household.
Use a calendar. In a household of two or 10, a shared calendar is a simple tool to reference each person’s schedule on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Digital calendars like Google allowsharing schedules among a group.
Another option is awall calendar. Give each family member a different color to write in activities. Be certain to include work deadlines, test schedules, sports and extracurricular activities, social activities and chores.
Stick to a daily schedule. Set a time forwaking up, mealtime, physical activity, bedtime and other daily rituals. Maintaining structure for telework and school at home can be difficult because home is traditionally where structures are relaxed. Once the routine is established, daily tasks will fall into place without much effort.
Make time to talk. Discuss school projects, family issues, personal interests, weekend activities and any concerns about the future. Ask children howthey feel and address those feelings with compassion and honesty. Younger children may need repeated explanations for what is happening andwhy things are different.
Delegate responsibilities. Don’t try to do everything yourself! A full house all day and every day means household mainte
nance that should be shared among family members. Try assigning tasks to certain people, usingweekly or daily rotations or both.
Have a healthy lunch. Anne Arundel County’s public school schedule allows for a two-hour break fromabout 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., depending upon grade level. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of constant grazing while home all day, but regular meal and snack times can help control overeating. An extended lunch break is also an opportunity to have physical activity and a break fromsitting in front of a computer.
Spend time outdoors and enjoy nature. Give the eyes a break fromthe
screen, stretch and breath in some fresh air. Even a brief change of atmosphere can be energizing!
Maximize theweekends! Adjusting to the new normal, managing multiple schedules, and sticking to a routine are hardwork. Recognize the effort and enjoy the times when it is possible to relax.
Sleep in and slowdown. Take time off from the hustle ofwork and school days mentally and emotionally.
Support each other. Reach out to your child’s school to learn about local resources. Communicate with teachers, and be mindful that this is also a challenge for them. Connect with other parents to share ideas and provide encouragement. No one is alone in this venture!