GETTY IMAGES
A SURVIVAL GUIDE TO
FA M I LY written by BRITTANY WEDD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DISCOVERY STATION AT HAGERSTOWN INC.
"School is for school; home is for family time." Those were the daily sentiments of a friend's 7-year-old when they tackled distance learning earlier this year. When the coronavirus pandemic hit the Tri-State region, life changed in ways that few could have predicted. Teachers and caregivers had very little time to prepare for the emergency closures of school districts, and children’s worlds were upended. Many children struggled to transition from learning in a school environment to learning at home. Children, like adults, rely on routine, and when you break from the norm unexpectedly, it can unleash a host of emotions that need to be processed. It can be confusing and scary, and many families experienced situations like my friend, where distance learning caused their little ones to have regular meltdowns. Though it appears that distance learning will continue into the fall and beyond, the good news is that there are ways to keep your children engaged in their learning and ensure smoother school days for all involved.
Designate learning spaces. A designated area in your home exclusively for schoolwork is one of the most important things a parent or caregiver can provide for children during this time. It should be quiet, with limited or no distractions, such as televisions or pets. The space should provide all the things students need to be successful: a desk or table, comfortable chair and proper lighting. If you're limited on house space or don’t have a desk, a kitchen table or counter is fine. Just be sure to clear the area so children have enough room to do their work. The goal is for them to feel like they are stepping into their learning space. It's OK to personalize the space, but keep in mind that one of the struggles teachers often face during virtual instruction is children getting distracted by toys or wanting to play "show and tell" with other students. Keep a schedule. As we continue to navigate distance learning in a continually changing environment, it’s essential to maintain assignment and classroom schedules as much as possible so the learning process is disrupted as little as
