How to Create Structure to Help Your Kids Learn at Home
Bring school structures home. With the increased number of states announcing no return to school this year, many parents are facing the reality that they will be at home with their students until at least the fall. With this being the “new normal” for now, it is more important than ever that we build systems that support our students’ learning and wellbeing, as well as your ability to continue working and maintaining sanity. Here are some strategies to try, keep in mind that these may be very helpful for you as well.
Post a schedule. Students as young as preschool are often taught to refer to the posted schedule in the classroom. Post a schedule with transitions and breaks built in so students know what to expect, and you can all be on the same page about what the time should be used for.
Transitions. School naturally provides transitions. Students stand up, and move to their next class or activity. Between every class or activity, students should be getting up and moving. This might be going to the kitchen for a snack, doing jumping jacks, or racing around the house. Many younger students do well with “gamifying” transitions. Time how fast they can stack cups, make a chart over the course of a week, and turn it into math later. Consider joining in – these can be short, positive interactions between you and your child.
Classroom bells. Most students are used to some type of bell to transition between classes and activities. Set repeating timers to go off five minutes before each class as a reminder and at the beginning of each class to transition them to learning.
Play. Whatever age your student is, movement and fun are important parts of a school day and day-to-day life. Come up with a list or fun activities, ideally with movement, and rotate through them. Again, this might be an excellent opportunity to goof around with your child or even just have a small positive interaction.
Pay attention to parent burn out. You are suddenly being required to do an incredible task: homeschooling. Even if you are fortunate enough to be at a school that is able to provide a robust online program, you are still being asked to monitor and foster learning. Make sure that all systems that you implement seem sustainable. It is best for you and your kids to make supports that preserve the overall wellbeing of your family, including you. These are extraordinary circumstances – don’t forget to pause and appreciate all of the successes you are having, no matter how small they might feel today.
We are here to help coach you through this transition.
If you would like help creating a customized plan for you or your family, reach out to us to learn more about our online ADHD and executive function coaching for adolescents and adults. Learn more at www.thehowskills.com.
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Best,
Paige Porter
The How Skills
ADHD & Executive Function Coaching
thehowskills.com
hello@thehowskills.com
