The Department for Education has published a collection of tips for parents faced with schoolchildren required to learn from home during the pandemic emergency.
Entitled Learning at home: our top tips for you, the online web page begins by suggesting that parents explain to children what is happening to cause the change in learning.
“Talk openly and calmly to your child about the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to learn from home; understanding the situation will help to reduce anxiety,” the Department says.
It says further tips include staying connected with your child’s school; consider creating a dedicated learning space at home; create routines and expectations; exercise regularly; and don’t be too hard on yourself or your child.
“Your school will provide details around learning activities,” the Department says,
“Monitor the information they provide and if there’s something you need to support your child’s learning let the school know.”
It says that while everyone’s home is different, a quiet and comfortable learning space with minimal distractions and an appropriate chair, would help children learn.
“Structure is important – set a routine and check in regularly with your child to see how their learning is progressing and that they’re using the internet appropriately,” it says.
The Department says exercise can help with focus and stops children from feeling restless.
“Make time for exercise and have regular breaks where you child can get up and move around in-between learning,” it says.
“You know your child best and how to support them.
“You are not expected to be your child’s teacher.
“Just do your best.”
The Department’s Learning at home tips can be accessed at this PS News link and home learning support and resources on the Our Learning SA website at this link.
