Going the Distance with Distance Learning: How to Support Your Child at Home

"We’re getting used to the new normal.” How many times have we heard that since March? 

The “new normal” these days requires you as caregivers to wear many hats and juggle many roles simultaneously. You have to be your child’s best friend, parent, teacher, and primary care provider for physical and mental health. All of this is on top of working from home (or securing a babysitter). It is an all-day, everyday wash, rinse, and repeat cycle that’s been going on for many long and draining months. And although teachers and families are stretched thin during these times, they try their best to ensure that children don’t feel the weight of the world as it is turned upside down.

While keeping children happy, healthy, and safe are of utmost importance as we navigate this “new normal,” a critical question becomes, “How can families continue to engage in their child’s education sustainably and safely?” Teach Me Tutors has brainstormed a list of tips to support children at home: 

1. Ask the teacher

Teachers appreciate it when their child’s caretaker shows that they’re invested in the child’s education. You could send a quick email to your child’s teacher, introduce yourself, and ask some of the following questions: 

     a. What are students expected to master by the end of the year? 

      b. Dare to be bold: What are the priority common core state standards for the year? 

      c. In what areas does my child need to improve?

and most importantly...

    d. Do you need me to bring you a glass of wine?

2. Enrich your child’s learning with these resources

Use these online games and at-home activities to support your child in the academic areas where they need it. If you dared to be bold, look for activities based on the priority standards. Here are some of our favorite resources to get you started:

1.  XTRAMath- free math fluency practice; free on the web, or $5 for the mobile app
2. Illuminations Math- free math lessons, games, and interactive activities for PK-12th grade learning and review
3.  Epic! Books- Leveled Reading; free for 30 days (or ask your child's teacher to sign up for free)
4.  RAZ-Kids- Leveled Reading; free for 14 days
5.  K-5 Learning- free math and reading online lessons and worksheets for K-5th grade students. They provide the answer key as well, so no need to guess if it is correct!

and our all-time favorite...

6. Khan Academy- free online guided lessons and worksheets for all grade levels and subjects. Students can practice at their own pace. Check out their free mobile app, Khan Academy Kids, for ages 2-7.

3. Check out these Common Core State Standards (CCSS) Parent Roadmaps for Kindergarten to 8th grade students for both literacy and math.

It can be daunting and overwhelming to read the CCSS and understand how to help your child. As intimidating as it may seem, it’s crucial for you to understand what your child is learning and what they should know by the end of the school year. The roadmaps linked above are a clearcut guide and a quick overview of how to help your child.

4. Establish a routine and try hard to stick to it.

Establishing a routine, like when we tell ourselves we are going to consistently workout, read a book, or cook, can be difficult. For example, when we stick to a workout routine, over time, we begin to see ourselves getting stronger. On the contrary, imagine how you feel when you tell yourself that you’re going to consistently exercise, but you fall off. Inconsistency will not help you reach your fitness goals.

It’s the same with distance learning. Children need structure and routine to thrive, like going to school Monday through Friday from 8 am-4 pm. However, sadly, going into a physical school building isn’t an option for everyone at this time. So now it is up to families to provide structure and routine for an additional eight hours each day. As exhausting as it may be, providing structure and routine for your child will help everyone stay sane and help your child to grow academically. For example:

• Start your day off in the same way every day
• Set aside a specific time to do homework
• Have lunch/meals around the same time
• If they need a nap, make it consistently around the same time
• Help your child wake up and go to bed on a consistent schedule

5. Make time for joy, family fun, and human connection

Joy is so important for us as humans. Research shows that happiness has a lot of health benefits, including an improved immune system, a longer life span, and less stress. Amidst a pandemic, find joy. It can literally save your life. 

• Have a family game night and invite other family members and friends to join in online
• Get lost in a book and travel to a new location through reading
• Transform your living room into a beach with pictures, beach towels, bathing suits, and a tropical snack
• Make household chores a game--see who can pick up the most items. See who can find a special prize while cleaning, or simply play some music and dance while you tidy up
• Try some calming activities like step-by-step drawing tutorials on YouTube
• And don’t forget about your favorite childhood activities like hide-and-seek; rock, paper, scissors; or fort building

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6. Spend time outside

Believe it or not, fresh air has a lot of health benefits, too. Spending time outdoors increases mental focus, joyful feelings, and vitamin D levels. Activities such as biking, tennis, basketball, or even long walks in the park or on a trail are just a few ways to stay sane, safe, and healthy.

To Wrap Things Up...

As we ride this wave of distance learning, it’s safe to say that we will continue in this “new normal” of a virtual academic experience for the foreseeable future, at least. Here at Teach Me Tutors, we want to work with you to support your child during distance learning. We provide tutoring in a variety of subjects for students of all ages, always by a certified teacher. How do you plan to support your child at home during this time? Share with us on Facebook or Instagram.