This is going to be a new and challenging time for many of that will be virtually teaching from home with our kids. In our home, I will now become the aide that our son is used to having in school all day. I will be the one to help guide and direct and keep him on task, I am sure he is as tired of my voice too. But, for now, this is our only option.
I have been reading, learning and creating ideas to make it as smooth as I can, I am worried about being on the computer all day, I am also not happy that I am losing what little “free time” I had to get things done and just be. But, no time to sit on that- we have to make this work!
Here are some ideas I have come up with to help in this. I will update as we progress and share what is and is not working.
I think one thing to keep in mind is that we know our children best, use your voice and share with your educators what is working and not. Ask for creativity and individuality in what is happening now, this is all new, for all of us. Be open to hear the ideas they have, but also do not hesitate to share the ones you have.
- Get a calendar and write down all dates and times for you to keep track of
- Print a copy of your child’s schedule and the bell schedule they will be following ( I made 2 copies, one for each of us)
- Check any links you have or sites you need before classes start
- Be sure you have your internet connected
- Have a designated work/ school space with adequate light
- Incorporate the breaks needed fo stretching or to refocus
- Be sure you and your child are dressed appropriately – I did a zoom with a shirt on inside and out and did not know!
- Set alarms on your mobile device to be sure you are on time – we had our son do this too
- Know how to mute whatever platform you will be on for class
- Be sure to get the info on how to reach teachers after class and for extra help
- Do not require homework to be done when classes are over. They will need down time to be off devices
- Ask questions, if you do not understand something, you are not expected to figure it out alone
- See if any other parents want to connect virtually for support for you and your child
- If your child has an IEP, be sure all is in place. Ask questions as to how things will be done
- Schedule outside or activity time to allow the body to move and be physical
- Keep a notebook to share feedback with your child’s learning team – they won’t know if you don’t tell them
Good luck to all of you, I will be thinking of you all and sending over virtual strength . Please send some our way too!
XO
Carissa