The school year 2020 is going to be a lot different. Schooling is now done online, and for those new to this method of education, it's going to be challenging for sure. As a parent or guardian, it is important to ensure that your child finds success in this switch to online platforms.
At home, distractions are commonplace. There's video games, TV, streaming services, and a whole lot of time wasters that can draw your kids' focus away from schoolwork. It's important that a quiet and comfortable place is provided to keep distractions at bay.
Here are a couple of things we'd recommend students of all ages have when making the switch to online schooling:
A reliable computer
Back to School season also means Back to School sales. Take advantage of this opportunity but it's important you get the right type of device for your kid. Kids don't need a laptop that's worth thousands of dollars. But be careful not to spend too little either or your child may end up with a laptop that's unable to perform certain tasks.
An accredited online school program
For parents whose children are already enrolled, there's a good chance their schools already have an online setup prepared. Teachers will be providing the information for classes, including the applications needed to participate.
If you're looking for alternative learning options, services like K12 provide recommendations to tuition-free online schooling programs. You can find free or low-cost online courses on sites like Khan Academy, Varsity Tutors, and Outschool.
It's important to do your research to find an online school that's right for your child.
A conducive learning area
Decide on a learning space for your kid to complete schoolwork. It must be quiet and away from distractions as much as possible, and there also must be a designated time for doing lessons or homework. If you can, sit without child and offer help. Some kids want to do work on their own, while others may need assistance from parents. Identify the method that works for your child.
You might want to invest in a school desk or an ergonomic table. Whatever your choice is, it must be a designated desk for schoolwork and nothing else. This will help your child to understand that school time must be separated from personal time.
Just as family and work don't mix, the same is true for home and your children's' personal time.
