Stay on Track: Best Practices for Remote Learning at Home
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
Published on in Health Tip of the Week
When stay-home orders began in March, we took a crash course in at-home learning – with a great deal of variability among school districts, confusion and frustration for many students and families, and differing levels of participation and success.
Now that a new school year is underway, virtual learning is back for many students, and may be part of the plan for others as winter quickly approaches. Thankfully, most school districts were more prepared for at-home instruction this year, and can offer a more comprehensive learning experience.
Whether your child has been remote learning since the start of the school year, or you expect they may start doing more schooling from home in the coming months, CHOP has some best practices to share about virtual learning.
Don't let children do school work while also watching TV or monitoring their siblings. Each child deserves the opportunity to learn uninterrupted. Stagger school times if older teens are needed to watch or help with younger siblings.
Limit excessive TV and video game usage during the school week. Instead, encourage free play, imaginative play, crafts, reading, meetings with friends (online or in-person when safe to do so) and outdoor play. Consider planning a fun after-school activity with your child: learn to play a new game, experiment with a new recipe, or visit a new playground or park.
This is a challenging time for students, parents and teachers. But, we're all in the same boat. By partnering with your child and their school team, your student can have a successful school year, learn new skills and be prepared to return to in-person learning when it is available. If you need more help than usual in supporting your child’s education, that’s OK. Ask teachers how you can connect with them for additional assistance.
If you suspect your child has a learning challenge, emotional needs or requires additional support, please contact your child's school team for guidance and your primary care physician for resources in your area.
Read more: Tips for Homeschooling During COVID-19.
Stephanie W. Endres, MEd, is Manager of the Hospital School Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
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