The COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed what family’s daily lives look like. One of the biggest changes that has taken place is how school looks out for kids. In an attempt to keep children safe and to lower the spread of COVID-19, many schools have moved to online learning. This can put parents into a unique position that they may feel ill-equipped to fill--luckily there are tools and strategies to make online learning better for your children.
What is a Parent’s Role in Online Learning?
2020 has been an interesting year for everyone. As the impending COVID-19 pandemic loomed, schools in Utah and across the country began to shut down, moving children into a whole new world of education. Teachers were forced to hold classes through online conference calls with students. Students were forced to navigate new methods of learning where they receive their lessons and assignments digitally. All the while parents juggled their work and home-life as they attempted to figure out what their role would be in this strange new world of online learning.
When you’re a parent, your children are your top priorities. You want them to learn and to flourish in their lives. This explains why studies have found that parents often take on the role of a teacher while their children participate in online learning.
Online learning can feel like treading water and you may be concerned that your children aren’t getting enough out of it as they would in a traditional classroom setting. That’s why it’s important for you to make school a priority for them. Research has found that children do well in online learning when their parents take an active role in their lessons and help to guide them.
How You Can Support Your Child Through Online Learning
Online learning may not be ideal but there are ways that it can positively impact your child and keep them interested in their lessons.
- Supervise While They’re In Class - Keep an eye on your children during class time. It’s important to make sure that they’re able to log-in and set everything up properly for their lessons--younger children may need a bit more help with this. It’s also important to know how your children are managing their time during class.
- Reduce Distractions - Learning from home means that there are far more distractions surrounding your children than in the classroom. Distractions and clutter can increase stress creating a space that is difficult for your child to learn in. It’s a good idea to create a clutter-free workspace for your children to study and attend their classes digitally. These small changes can make a world of difference for them during their lessons.
- Take a Break - Sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time can be very difficult for children. Taking small breaks in between learning is a great way to not only keep your children active but improve their attention as well. Studies have found that higher levels of screen time are associated with harmful effects on health including depression, anxiety, and obesity.
- Create a Schedule - Having a consistent schedule and following it allows children to easily transition in and out of school time while also letting parents plan their workdays. It helps build children’s time management skills and creates much-needed structure for children who may have a difficult time with online learning. It’s a great idea for parents to collaborate on the schedule with their children as well.
- Stay Positive - Online learning isn’t easy. There may be times when your child struggles with it and gets frustrated with their situation because they can’t quite comprehend what is happening in the world or why they are no longer in the classroom with their friends. It’s important that you stay positive and supportive of them during these times. Listen to their frustrations and try to stay calm for them. Your love and support can help to carry them through this difficult time.
Online Learning Through Mountain Heights Academy
Mountain Heights Academy offers online schooling in Utah and is renowned for its high standardized test scores and graduation rate. Our teachers offer unmatched personalized instruction with customized curriculums that can meet individual students’ needs. To learn more about Mountain Heights Academy’s online school programs, contact us today at 801-721-6329.