WANT TO HELP YOUR CHILD BUT FEEL OUT OF YOUR DEPTH?

TOP EXPERTS TELL YOU HOW

Janey Cooksley, headteacher of Briar Hill Primary School in Northamptonshire: “Remember, this is a short-term situation and in the end the children will catch back up even if they temporarily fall behind. Just do what you physically can. Reading is important – building fluency and a love of reading unlocks doors to everything else. Let children socialise. They thrive on interaction, so book FaceTime sessions, plan online family games or virtual play dates so they get to see their friends.”

Stevie Goulding, helpline co-manager for child mental health charity YoungMinds:

“Remote learningcan be incredibly challenging for parents, so it’s really important to be kind to yourself and make space for alone time. “Break up the work – set small amounts throughout the day to help them feel less overwhelmed. And personalise it – use their toys to help them add and subtract.”

Jes Gilkes, teacher assistant at Ambler Primary School, London:

Keep it simple and stress free. This is a tough time on all of us, especially children who are used to the daily routine of school life. I think it’s really important to set small, achievable (and engaging) tasks throughout the day, broken up by small breaks and movement activities. Maintaining as much structure as possible is key.

Rosie O’Brien, primary school teacher at Comber Grove Primary, London:

My advice to parents is always to not overstress it. It’s never going to be the same as actual school and everyone is in the same boat – everyone will have learning gaps when they’re back at school. The most important thing is for the children to feel safe, happy and loved – if you can achieve that while still reading a couple of books together, working out the measurements for a recipe and doing a bit of Joe Wicks, you’re winning!