Tip #1 Let's Get Started: Explore

We are better together..

As we all navigate through times none of us have ever experienced, Clinton-Massie Local Schools would like to assure you that our teachers will be working hard creating virtual learning experiences for our students in the next two weeks. We know that you, the parent/guardian, are trying to juggle quite a bit in this uncertain time. We would like to offer some guidance as you and your student(s) explore this suddenly new way of learning. We will be creating communications for parents and students to help with the transition. This is the first tip sheet that we will share. We are better together as we all work to meet the needs of all of our students. So now, let's EXPLORE how you and your student can prepare for learning at home.

Explore your environment

One of the best tips that you can apply to your planning right away is the understanding that you do not need to create an environment at home like the one your student has at school. It is not the same. Just look around! What makes them comfortable? What helps them stay focused? What resources does the space offer?

Create spaces for learning, for work, for quiet activities, and for physical activity. The possibilities are endless. Establish these spaces with your child but be flexible. Before the end of the school year you all may have discovered something that works better than what you first explored.


Examples of Schedules

Remember, not a one size fits all. Meet your family's needs.

This is more elementary but may help you create your schedule.

Explore Your Schedule

No matter your situation, creating a schedule that works for you and your student(s) is critical. What routines need to be established in order for everyone to be productive and independent? A couple things to remember:

  1. No one schedule is a one size fits all. Use some time this week to work out a schedule with your student. Give them a voice. Establish non-negotiables. AND if you try the schedule and it does not work, scrap it and try another. BE FLEXIBLE!

  2. Invest in some solid time this week to help your student be independent while they work at home. The investment will pay off.

  3. Give yourself permission to take time to figure it out. Again, it will be worth the investment.

Explore Tools to Keep you on track

Timer

Explore different types of timers that are available online or in your kitchen.

Calendar

Explore different calendars you can use to map out your day. It could be a simple Google Calendar, your kitchen calendar, or something you create on your wall.


To Do List

Utilizing to do lists will help your student organize, prioritize, and become more independent. Explore tools online or utilize your calendar/paper.

Explore Needs

As you start exploring your environment, your schedule, and helpful tools, you may start identifying needs that exist for your student. Here are a couple things to keep in mind:

  1. Don't be afraid to start over with your plans OR mix it up if you find things aren't working.

  2. Give yourself permission to take a break.

  3. As you plan, remember younger children may only be able to focus on a task for 10 or 15 minutes. Take lots of movement breaks, sing songs and get outside when you can.

  4. In these uncertain times, one of the best things we can do is to take care of ourselves. We can all benefit from consistent routines/habits, mindful activities, and self care. Here are some resources for ideas and habits that support your social and emotional health. SEL and Mindfulness Resources, Flexibility in the Midst of Crisis and The Parent Guide to Resilience.

  5. Ask your student what they need. This is all new to them also and it looks nothing like what they are use to.

  6. Stay connected with friends and family through communication services (Hangouts, Skype, Facetime, or Zoom) or watch a movie with someone in another home through Netflix Party.

Brain Break Activities

Kidz Bop Dance Party


Instagram Virtual Dance Party


Cosmo Yoga


Explore Answers

Talking to Kids about COVID-10

Here are some resources to help you answer questions your child may have about this crisis.

Ready, Set, Go....

We are here for you. Allow you and your student(s) to ease into this "way of life" we are experiencing. Try to be flexible, patient, and reach out for help if you or anyone in your family needs assistance. You will be hearing from teachers very soon if you haven't already. Communication is our priority and we hope that these tips will help with this transition. Look for another edition coming soon that will focus on explaining next steps.