Being sequestered at home and the disruption of the typical school routine will be a challenge. Our goal is to provide daily lessons, activities and assignments to keep students engaged and connected to their learning. Doing so will go a long way towards supporting their well-being during an uncertain time. Below are a few points to consider and strategies to support your tween or Teen for learning at home.

Do You Have a Schedule?

No matter the child’s age, educators recommend providing structure. At home, there aren't the usual period bells to signal when it’s time for the next class. Creating a routine, deciding on a schedule , sticking to plans and self-initiated learning are all important skills to foster. Take this opportunity to sit down with your child and discuss all those skills. Then ask them to create a draft of a daily schedule they will follow. Start with deciding on a time for two independent reading sessions and one physical education period per day. The rest of the schedule will depend on the learning activities they receive from their teachers, but talk about when across the day/evening to they prefer to dedicate time to their assignments and activities. Be open to letting them adjust as they go.

Students try this e-schedule maker to help plan your days.

Take Advantage of the Time to Explore Interests

This is a good time for our secondary students to explore interests. Part of their learning at home could be to engage with the software and online resources we have provided on the Connected to Learning Digital Page. Make personal interest self-exploration a part of the daily schedule.

Social Emotional Needs are Paramount

This is a hard time for children of all ages. Many will struggle with missing face to face social contact with friends, High School students might be worried about the effect this will all have on their transcripts, AP classes, and college applications, and Seniors will be concerned that the senior activities they so looked forward to, might be in jeopardy. Keeping this in mind will be the first step towards supporting their emotional well-being. Be sure they get opportunities to socialize using virtual means, such as face-timing with friends. Encourage physical activity and Mindful exercises. Check out our Physical Education and Health and Wellness pages for resources and more information.

Most importantly, spend time as a family and talk. See the web-page Talking with your child about the corona-Virus for help with what to say. Our kids need us know more than ever.