Get to the next level of virtual learning with these useful tips

Whether it’s part or full time, attending school virtually can be a challenging task for many.  It involves diligence, concentration, and commitment. At the same time, it involves parental supervision, especially for children who are becoming accustomed to a completely new way of learning.

As we transition into this new environment in the next few weeks, we would like to offer some tips to help you make your make your kids’ virtual learning experience a success.

Set a daily schedule

Establishing a daily schedule helps everyone stay on top with daily tasks. Encourage your kids to get ready for the day just as if they were physically going to school. This includes showering, getting dressed, & eating breakfast prior to logging on to the school’s online learning portal. Include breaks for snacks and meals, exercise, and down time. Post the daily schedule in a place that is easily accessible by everyone such a refrigerator door, or a bulletin board.

Draft a daily to-do list

Drafting a to-do list the night before is a good strategy because it helps one prepare and prioritize for the next day’s tasks. Use a note pad or the Outlook/Google calendar on a smart phone or computer. List the most important items first – or rank them in order of due-date. Cross them off as they are completed – the sense of accomplishment provides that needed motivation to keep going.

Set up a learning center in your home

Create a workspace that is comfortable yet functional. Families are creating at-home learning spaces by tweaking their home office space to accommodate extra desks/tables, or by adding creative spaces around the house. If you don’t have a home office, the dining room table, kitchen tables, or islands can be ideal. If your children have desks in their rooms, encourage them to leave their rooms between classes, so they can stretch their legs, get some fresh air, and re-charge. Keeping bedrooms clean and organized will also help make the environment more productive.

Make your home learning spaces more productive by stocking them with proper school supplies. The more prepared your kids are to learn, the more focused they’ll be. Lastly, encourage your kids to keep their work area clean and organized.

Tips for staying focused

1. Eliminate Distractions
   • Put your cell phones away
   • Use head phones
   • Turn off the TV
2. Take breaks and eat healthy snacks
3. Stay active, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated

We hope this school year is a success for everyone in your family.