A survival guide to distance learning

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.

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.

Learning Space: You don't have to worry if space is limited in your home. You can easily set up a small desk in a quiet area of your house. A simple desk or small table works just fine. Select a work table in your child's favorite color to help ease him or her into learning.

Photo submitted by Jessica Castle

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.

Xavier Hastings, Grade 3, from Smithsburg: This might be a familiar scene for a lot of parents -- when children can't tackle their schoolwork anymore! Distance Learning can, understandably, be overwhelming at times. Help your children navigate their feelings by taking a moment to breathe through their frustrations—even while they're upside down.

Photo submitted

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 possible. It’s important to ensure that children are sitting in on Zoom or Google Classroom sessions each day. If they’re unable to join due to parental work conflicts or medical appointments, designate a time when they can get caught up.

Backpack Learning Space: Katie Mace completely redid her daughters' learning space for fall. Both of her daughters have a designated learning area, free from distractions, to complete classwork without interfering with each other's study time.

Photo submitted by Katie Mace

Buy a backpack

Though many children won’t be returning to classrooms this fall, it’s vital to help them feel a sense of normalcy. Buy a backpack and keep all of their school supplies inside it. Have them carry their school items to their designated learning space each day. They can even pack a lunch and eat in that area. Doing so creates a psychological connection to that place as a classroom, which will help them transition into the distance-learning environment.

Recess Time with AshLynn: Parents should make time for kids to have a "recess" at home. This will allow for them to be able to decompress after schoolwork as AshLynn Humphrey, age 9, shows here. They'll be able to reset and refocus in between classes.

Photo submitted

Motivation and engagement

Keeping children motivated and focused on learning can be a challenge. Younger students might have issues staying focused during long periods of instruction. Substituting a child-size yoga ball for a chair can help them burn excess energy through bouncing. It's also good practice to ensure that they get at least 30 minutes of physical activity and play during the school day. Providing recess will help students reset their clocks and feel a sense of normalcy.

Remember to breathe

Distance learning will inevitably have pitfalls, so take moments to breathe, and set aside time for self-care and relaxation – for yourself and your children. Children will likely become frustrated and act out their emotions, so reassure them that they're doing a great job and acknowledge their feelings so they feel supported. These are trying times, but we are all in this together.

For free learning resources, go to Discoverystation.org; www.instagram.com/discovery_station; twitter.com/discstat; or www.facebook.com/DiscoveryStationatHagerstown.

BRITTANY WEDD

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DISCOVERY STATION AT HAGERSTOWN, INC.