10 most important things for parents to do during online classes

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on everybody, and it would not be an exaggeration to say that this will continue to be the new normal for the foreseeable future. While many parents were asked to work from home, the children started attending classes on Zoom. This transition was by no means an easy one. The schools did everything in their power to accommodate the needs of their students, yet parents have been worried about the adverse impact that these changes may cause on the young minds. 

Here are a few tips for parents that can help give their children some semblance of normalcy. 

1. Fix a Schedule 

Doing things by following a routine as a practice can cultivate discipline as a habit. A schedule helps kids be disciplined and this in the long run builds their confidence. Parents can help children practice this by ensuring that they have fixed schedules, even though they are home.

2. Keep the Essentials ready

While going to school, parents normally check if their children have their stationery in place. This needs to continue through the online classes too. Last-minute runs to get stationery will make them lose their focus and they might lag in following instructions. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure the children are always well equipped.

3. Dedicate a Table
   A dedicated place to sit and study will help children to improve their concentration and focus on teaching. It also gives them their own space for education and learning. Parents can also ensure this space is visible for them to keep a check in case their children need any help. 

 

4. Protect the Web
   The internet is a vivid world with no limitations, and so it is extremely important to take precautions and ensure safety from cyberbullying. By ensuring the privacy restrictions on the system that the child is using for classes, parents can keep harmful content at bay. Parents may customize the parental controls on Windows or Chrome for safe use of the internet.
   
    
5. Break from the Screen
   Along with the necessary and non-negotiable online classes, children must be encouraged to do more offline activities. Revisions can be done verbally or on paper. They can also be motivated to pursue hobbies such as painting and drawing, dance, music. These activities will refresh them, while also giving them a break from the screen time.

 

6. Be the Problem Solver 

Children can be hesitant to ask questions and with the online classes, it has become even more uncomfortable for them to interrupt and clarify their doubts. In such a case, as parents it is important for you to ask them if they need any help and provide that help. Children can often feel lost and helpless, which will be counterproductive. 
 

7. What is the homework?
   With the online classes, children are struggling to differentiate between the classwork and homework because everything is being done from home. It is hence essential to have a clear system of diary and noting down homework separately, to help them with this differentiation. It is also important that parents provide different notebooks for each, and regularly check their daily calendars.  
    
8. Snack time at home

While in school, children use their snack breaks for interacting with their friends. Now since they are spending time only at home, snack times can be used as a break to interact with the family. Keeping the conversation away from schoolwork will be of utmost importance because the intention is to give them a ‘break’. 

9. Healthy Child - Mentally + Physically
   Children’s mental and physical well-being is of utmost importance in these times. Therefore, parents need to encourage their children to engage in physical activities. Of course, there are space and time constraints but, simple indoor exercises along with the family members can be refreshing. Exercises have been known to produce endorphins that greatly improve their mood too. 
    
10. Communication is Key
    We have all realized how this pandemic has affected all of us. It is also well known that parents have faced extreme stress due to uncertainties caused by financial situations, employment, strained relationships… It is unfortunate that even children are susceptible to stress. It is extremely necessary to speak with them and let them share their worries and emotions. 

The author is the Principal, ORCHIDS - The International School

(Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own and do not reflect those of DNA.)