With kids going to school at home, many parents have education on the front of their minds. If you’re looking to get involved, try these tips to help your child make the most out of their virtual classes.
Listen to Class Meetings
The rise of virtual learning has given parents a chance to see their children’s education from an entirely new perspective. Before, you could only view your kid’s classes from the outside, and everything you knew about the classroom was mostly hearsay. But now, you can actually sit in on your kid’s lessons and see exactly what they’re learning every day.
The best place for your kids to take their online classes is at the kitchen table or another central household location. Ask them to leave their headphones off, and turn up the volume so you can listen in while you’re getting things done around the house. Don’t be afraid to lean over and take a look at the screen; parents should be able to know what content their children are engaging with.
Respect Their Learning Environment
Studying is already difficult enough for students without adding unnecessary distractions. Your kids might be learning at home, but the space where they do their schoolwork should still be treated like a classroom.
In general, keep the noise down during classroom hours, and make sure that you’re not doing any activities that create a disruptive environment. Use your own judgment to find a balance that lets your kid focus while allowing everyone in the house to comfortably exist.
Since you’re now filling the role of teacher, don’t forget to provide supplies and facilitate school projects. Your kid should be able to sit down in a chair and have their laptop, notebook, and textbooks all ready to go.
Pay Attention to Homework Assignments
Virtual learning relies heavily on homework assignments. In the absence of in-class activities, your kids may be asked to complete worksheets, projects, and even essays to show that they’re following along.
Unfortunately, kids can’t be expected to manage a list of deadlines on their own. If you try to make them pay attention to due dates at a young age, the resulting stress might actually impact their ability to do their homework. As a parent, you can avoid this problem by watching their schedule and making sure they never miss an assignment.
A good way to stay on track is to ask the teacher to send you assignments directly. If your kid has a worksheet due, ask where you can download a copy. The more of the technical details you handle, the more your kid will be able to focus on actually learning.
Virtual classes are a great chance to learn how your kids interact with their education. Pay attention, provide a comfortable learning environment, and participate when you’re able. As long as you prioritize your child’s happiness and success, you’ll be able to support them through even the most difficult classes.
