Dear Elementary Parents,
We would like to offer some tips for parents. The first resource is one we have sent before. It is a resource about how to talk to children about COVID-19. It comes from the National Association of School Psychologists, out of the US.
The second resource we would like to offer is a list of helpful tips for Virtual School:
- Ensure that you have a routine for your child(ren). Have a designated spot for them to engage in online learning, free from distractions, yet not in their bedrooms. Ideally, this space would be close to the adult monitoring the learning. Schedule snack times and exercise, downtime and ways to relax; perhaps some Mindfulness.
- Keep moving. Even short 5-minute movement breaks sprinkled throughout the day can help .
- Give children choice. If children have some choice and control, they tend to feel more secure.
- Have fun times too! Schedule times for games, baking, nature walks, and other things away from screens.
- Make parenting decisions. You know your child best. If they are getting near not being able to self-manage, then stop Virtual School. Take a break or even stop for the day. Learning does not happen if children are feeling overwhelmed. Just email your child’s teacher, they will understand.
- Stay positive. This may be difficult sometimes, but we know how impactful the right mindset is.