Virtual Learning Success Tips!
The start of the 2020-2021 school year may look different from previous years for students due to virtual learning, but you can still help your child have a successful school year, even from the comfort of your home.
Follow these tips to keep your teen on track to succeed…
Stay Involved - Know your child’s daily schedule to include what classes he/she is taking, the times of those classes and teachers’ names and contact info. Check in on the progress of your child at least weekly by sending an email to the teacher, (i.e. every Monday or Friday), even if your child is doing well academically.
Discuss Expectations – Discuss the expected routine with your child to include attending class each day, scheduled little breaks throughout the day and time for homework and studying. Follow through if expectations are not being met.
Check In with your child EVERYDAY – Have conversations about how classes are going, upcoming assignments/projects/quizzes/tests, grades, and ask questions to check on his/her wellness. Virtual Learning and not being physically in school with teachers and friends can cause anxieties. The more you check in with your child, the more you will be able to recognize when something is not right.
Make sure your child shows up every day ready to learn – Getting up on time and getting dressed, eat breakfast, have assignments/homework completed prior to class, have books/notebooks that are needed close by at the start of class and be ready to log into classes at least five minutes early.
Support teachers’ expectations - Whether it is the teachers’ homework/assignments, policies, procedures, attendance, study sessions, tutoring requests, be sure that your child is following through.
Encourage your child to get to know his/her teachers and communicate needs to them - Just as if school were being held in person, teachers are available to meet with students virtually for extra help and study sessions. Encourage your child to request meetings with teachers.
Help your child separate school from home – If you are able, create a separate workspace for your child where learning will take place. This way, when the school day is over, homework/studying is finished or it is the weekend, your child can separate school life from home life. Being in the same space to learn and live can be overwhelming, so help your child establish the importance of keeping the two spaces separate from each other.
Get up and Get Out – With virtual learning taking place, your child is getting extra screen time, in addition to using cellphones, iPads and playing video games. Schedule time throughout the day that allows your child to get away from electronics. Encourage your child to go outside for a walk, bike ride or to sit on the porch to get some fresh air and relax.