This year has been like none other and for those parents with children, the upheaval resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic has seen mum and dad becoming teachers. For most parents, that means balancing work, meal planning, handling household duties – and now teaching. While the schools are now open in Dubai, some parents have chosen to continue homeschooling a little longer as the pandemic plays out. Others have childen attending physical classes every other day, while homeschooling the rest of the time. Whatever your situation, here are some homeschooling support tips to help you during these unusual times:
Stick to a schedule
Kids are used to a routine when they’re at school, whether they’re in kindergarten or secondary school. You’re probably used to a routine, too. You pack lunches, drop the kids off, then savour a coffee while you check your email at work. Routine has numerous mental health benefits. So during these difficult times, try to establish one that works for you and your family. For example, you could follow your pre-coronavirus routine for getting everyone ready to get out the door every morning. Then tack on your new normal.
Create a learning space
If you can, set aside a specific part of your home for learning. Your kitchen table could be a good spot, especially if you’re working from home and have to juggle teaching, keeping your kids out of trouble, and doing your job. A learning space can make it easier for everyone to transition from school work to other activities. It helps to keep some boundaries between the many activities getting blurred together right now.
Reduce iPad use and get creative
Social distancing can take a toll on both our bodies and our minds. With e-learning in place, kids of all ages are spending more time on their devices. And even though it’s for a good cause, when you stack that with their regular usage it can add up to an awful lot of screen time. Take a look at your kid’s daily activity, and make sure to set a reasonable limit. Set aside a little time each day to do something creative, exercise or go outdoors and get some fresh air.
Save time for lunch
Mealtime can be something that gets easily overlooked or rushed, but doing so could potentially make things harder for you in the long run. Set aside at least 30 minutes for lunch, and be sure to serve healthy, filling foods to help curb hunger and avoid the need for more afternoon snack breaks.
Be patient and get help when needed
While you’re used to powering through multiple tasks in a day, it’s important to consider that the rate at which your child learns may be different from yours or from other children. When assisting with schoolwork, try to let your child guide the pace for learning. Also, let’s be honest – we’re all a little rusty on our math skills. So, if you’re struggling on a certain topic, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher for some homeschooling support.
Neoversity homeschooling support
Students can come to the Neoversity Learning Center in Al Furjan Pavilion and receive daily help and guidance from skilled, and experienced teachers. They will receive the tools and support needed to make home schooling a success. We offer private tutoring for pupils of any age in all subjects and curriculums. Expert tutors from the world’s top universities design each class to meet your child’s exact needs. Contact us to find out more.
