Simple tips for distance learning - Duke Manor Farm by Laura Janning

Simple tips for distance learning as we navigate our new normal in the next few weeks or even longer. Tips that can help both student and parent.

How’s your new norm going, particularly the on-line learning? Didn’t see my makeshift classroom being set up a week ago! We started our on-line classes yesterday and so far so good. I want to maintain some order and structure around the house during this time. I believe it helps to eliminate some of the fear and stress that we all have in the house. I wanted to share a few things I am doing to make this transition as smooth as possible when it comes to my kids education.

Create a schedule for ‘school’

Kids need structure too. Our kids are already use to a schedule so go ahead and create one that makes sense for your household. We are basically using the same weekday routine that we have, just pushing it back a few hours. Instead of getting up at 6:30 they are getting up between 8-9. Luckily they are getting up on their own….eliminates the crank factor. When kids are done with lessons we read, go outside to play and do some household chores. The expectation is that all of that needs to be done before technology happens. That would be the norm anyways around our house. This is another subject that I will address in my house at some point 🙂

We start ‘school’ the same time each day. When they finish is up to them with anywork that needs to get done. I should note for anyone who struggles with the technology battle, I don’t allow technology before they start their ‘school’ day. All school work and other things need to be done beforehand. My kids are use to this, so I haven’t experienced push back. This expectation eliminates the distraction. (My kids are 11 and 14)

See what’s working for others

Check in with friends, teachers and others that have experience in distance learning. Be open to hearing ideas and suggestions on things that have worked for them. My friend Chris has been homeschooling her child for many years. She posted some helpful tips that I wanted to pass along. Keep in mind that every child and situation is different but I think this is a pretty good start.

1. Frequent breaks (with physical activity for the elementary aged ones) are essential. You should take about a 10 minute break between subjects for them to let off steam.

2. Don’t even try to do Math any time after lunch. Hit that waaaay early.

3. Don’t try to wing it. Create a schedule of (approximately) when you will do which subject and don’t worry if you run over time, or run early. It will all work out in the end. You may even have to stop in the middle of one subject and switch to another one if your child is about to have a melt down.

4.When your child does have a meltdown, just hug them. They don’t want to scream and cry as much as you don’t want to scream and cry. Sometimes they just need a hug.

5. Just have patience. Your kids are thrown into a tizzy just like you, and patience and understanding go a long way.

Take advantage of on-line resources

I have seen so many awesome on-line opportunities to supplement learning. From virtual museums to on-line to art classes (and mostly free). This is a great bonus to add on to your kids school day. Since most libraries are closed, take advantage of checking out on-line books instead. Something my kids school is doing to encourage staying physical during this time is to post a picture of them staying active and posting to the schools social media account. This time of ‘learning’ can be fun too!

Curious what tips you have? Leave them in the comments so we can all learn from them. I hope some of these simple tips for distance learning will help you navigate your child’s education at home for the next few weeks or even longer. Good luck….you got this.

Next time it is safe to do so, give your kids teachers a big high five….they deserve it.

Big hugs, stay healthy.