Tips for Success

1. Set up a learning space for your child

It’s important to set up a quiet, clutter-free area when your child is participating in virtual learning from home. Older kids are pretty independent, but if they don’t already have a desk or table in a family space, now’s a great time to think that through. For younger students it’s recommended to set them up somewhere where you can keep an eye on them and make sure they are following the teacher's directions.

2. Limit distractions

Smartphones, video games, social media, TV, toys, pets—our homes have lots of distractions. Make a list of the things that distract your child. Then, find ways to limit distractions during learning time. Unless they’re using a tablet for learning, put it away. TV’s should get turned off and even the family dog or cat should be banned from your home classroom. Also, if your kids have a mobile phone, switch it off during learning time.

3. Stick to the Schedule

It’s important to set up a system to help your child stay on top of school schedules and deadlines. This will help you and your child stay organized. You may want to post a calendar, color code it and mark it with due dates. Help your child plan backwards from the due dates. Use visual organizers to break an assignment down into steps and the specific strategies needed to complete it. Your child's school will provide a school schedule and most students will need parents to help them stay on track.

4. Add Light and Fresh Air

It’s normal to pause during schoolwork to rest your eyes on something besides a computer screen, so if possible, try to position your child’s study space near a window. The natural light and fresh air will be a major plus. It is also important to have good lighting for Google Meet sessions. The light should be in front of the child and not behind or above them, which leaves them in the shadows. Teachers miss seeing those faces!

5. Help "Meet" Expectations

During virtual learning times, students are often expected to join Google Meets with their teachers and peers. As many parents know from their own video conferences, it is important for all participants to follow certain guidelines. We have developed a set of Google Meet Expectations for Students, please help them get the most of these sessions!

Google Meet Expectations for Students (Grades PreK-4) | Google Meet Expectations for Students (Grades 5-12)

6. Get plenty of exercise

Exercise helps us think better. Encourage any physical activity when there are breaks in the day. Exercise improves our problem-solving, memory, and attention, and is a natural way to reduce stress and prevent anxiety. Experts say that when we move and get our heart rate up, it has a positive impact on how we think. Ask your teacher if they have any suggested exercise or stretching routines that you can also do at home. Also recommended, family dance parties!

7. Take smart snack breaks

If your kids are food motivated, they’ll likely raid the fridge a lot more if they are learning from the kitchen table. To keep them from being distracted by the lure of cookies and chips, schedule snack times between classes. Put out a couple of healthy items that they can nibble while working, then reward a completed school day with a personal favorite.

8. Take it one day at a time

Most of us don't have extra bedrooms, spacious kitchens, and patios to spread out in. Don’t get overwhelmed if your perfectly designed home is getting a little overcrowded with school projects and makeshift learning spaces. If you get stressed, your child will get stressed — and that affects concentration. Remember, this too shall pass!