As the pandemic continues, it forces new problems on struggling families, and has put children’s futures at an even higher risk. Today we’ll take a look at those issues and more with our guest, Linda Southward, Executive Director of the Children’s Foundation of MS. Plus, we'll speak with listeners about how the pandemic affected their families.
For more information about Children’s Foundation of MS visit www.ChildrensFoundationMS.org
Distance Learning Tips for parents and children:
Establish routines and expectationsDevelop good habits from the start, create a flexible routine and talk about how it’s working over timeHelp students get up, get dressed and ready to learn at a reasonable time.Keep normal bedtime routines, including normal rules for digital devices. Adjust schedules to meet everyone’s needs. Choose a good place to learnSet up a physical location that’s dedicated to school-focused activities. Make sure it is quiet, free from distractions and has a good internet connection. Make sure an adult monitors online learning. Keep doors open, and practice good digital safetyStay in touchTeachers will mainly be communicating regularly through online platforms and virtual learning environments. Make sure everyone knows how to find the help they need to be successfulStay in contact with classroom and support teachers, school leaders and counselors but understand it may take a day or two for us to respond. If you have concerns, let someone know.Help students ‘own’ their learningNo one expects parents to be full-time teachers or to be educational and content matter experts. Provide support and encouragement and expect your children to do their part. Struggling is allowed and encouraged! Don’t help too muchEstablish times for quiet and reflectionFor families with children of different ages, and parents who may also be unexpectedly working from home more often, it’s good to build in some time for peace and quiet.Siblings may need to work in different rooms to avoid distraction, negotiate access to devices, priorities for wi-fi bandwidth and schedules throughout the day. Encourage physical activity and exerciseLiving and working at home, we will all need some room to let off steam.Moving (independently and together as a family) is vital to health, well-being, and readiness for learning. Manage stress and make the most of an unusual situationChildren benefit when they get age-appropriate factual information and ongoing reassurance from trusted adultsRe-frame challenges as opportunities: for spending time together, discovering new ideas and interests, investing energy and attention in activities that often get pushed aside by everyday tasks and responsibilities. Monitor time on-screen and onlineWork together to find ways to prevent ‘down time’ from becoming just more ‘screen time’Connect safely with friends, and be kindHelp your children maintain contact with friends through social media and other online technologies. But monitor your child’s social media use. Remind your child to be polite, respectful and appropriate in their communications, and to follow school guidelines in their interactions with others.
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