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Many of our children struggle with transitions. Transitions are common triggers for many of our children, and behaviors such as resistance, avoidance, distraction, negotiation or even meltdown may manifest as a result of transitions. Moving from school-based learning to home-based learning is also a form of transition. This guide will therefore explicates the considerations related to preparing your child for home-based learning and how to help them successfully transit to home-based learning.
Establish Routine
Establish Routine
Unlike in school, an adult may not always be present to supervise your child. It is therefore important to establish a routine with them to build consistency and structure. Work out a routine with them on study, meal and rest timings, while ensuring a good balance of learning and rest.
Considerations when Establishing a Schedule
Considerations when Establishing a Schedule
Involve your child in setting up the schedule so that there will be greater ownership and commitment to follow the schedule.
Encourage healthy habits by maintaining regular wake, bed, meal and exercise time.
Use colors to differentiate the different type of activities scheduled.
Ensure that the timetable set is realistic and achievable for your child.
Be prepared to adjust the schedule if it does not work well.
You can download the timetable template provided below and tweak it to suit your child's needs.
Timetable Template
Set Expectations
Set Expectations
Discuss with your child the expectations you have for him for the different types of activities and also for the different time of the day.
Considerations when Setting Expectations
Considerations when Setting Expectations
State expectations positively - What to do, rather than what not to do.
E.g.
Say, "During study time, focus on completing your work."
instead of , "Don't play games during your study time."
State expectations in terms of observable behaviour, so that it can be monitored.
E.g.
"Complete your math homework in time."
instead of, "Work hard."
Recognize when things go well. Praise and reward your child when he meets the expectation set. Be specific in your praise, and follow up with a reward when appropriate.
E.g.
"I really like how you handed over your phone on time today!"
Create a Study Space
Create a Study Space
A study space is the area where your child studies, such as the dining table or study desk. It should be set up in an area that is conducive for learning.
Considerations when Creating a Study Space
Considerations when Creating a Study Space
Keep the study space consistent, so that they become used to working in the same area everyday.
Print out the timetable that was set up and have it displayed prominently at the study space.
Ensure that all necessary resources (HBL timetable, relevant materials) are accessible at the study space, and arrange all materials by subjects for ease of access.
Remove all distractions (phones, televisions) from the study space.
Experiment with different lighting to find something that works well for your child.
The study space should not be where your child sleeps.
It is best if the study space is within the sight of adults, so that there will be adequate supervision of your child.
Some Items to Consider for your Child's Study Space
Some Items to Consider for your Child's Study Space
Ergonomic Chair
External Mouse
More ergoomic than using a trackpad
Paper
To write down any questions or distracting thoughts
Timetable
Kitchen Timer
Helpful for time oriented tasks
For those using the Pomodoro Technique
Tactile Thinking Aids
Fidget spinner or cube to help your child stay focus
Water
Snacks
To keep blood sugar level up
Choose snacks that don't make a mess
More Resource to Help you Create a Study Space
More Resource to Help you Create a Study Space
How to Create an Organized, Productive Study Space
How to Create an Organized, Productive Study Space
Take Small Steps
Take Small Steps
It may take some time for you and your child to get used to home-based learning (HBL) and the new routines.
Be patient and remember to..
Let your Child Have a Say
Let your Child Have a Say
Remind your Child of the Expectations Set
Remind your Child of the Expectations Set
Celebrate Success
Celebrate Success
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