Virtual Learning Option Begins Sept. 14 Planning for the 2020-2021 school year has been very challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic. LCCAA had to make some difficult decisions to maintain the highest quality and most comprehensive services available to our families. Your child’s health and safety is our number one priority. Since space is limited for our center-based services, LCCAA Head Start will offer a virtual learning experience where your child can still learn and thrive. Virtual learning using the platform ClassTag begins Sept. 14. Virtual learning and support will be provided at home through interactive lessons by LCCAA teachers, educational programs and your child’s first teacher – YOU! When parents are partners in their child’s education, everyone wins. This virtual learning option includes all the typical services children at LCCAA Head Start Centers receive
including an assigned Family Service Worker to assist with resources, referrals and forms. Virtual students will also receive nutrition and health services including weekly food distributions. All the same screenings done at our centers will also be accomplished. In addition to a weekly call or virtual meeting with a teacher, you will have access to daily read-alouds, daily literacy lessons, program enhancements (music, tae kwon do, etc.) and other virtual services you can use at your convenience. Each child will receive both an art kit and a music kit so they have access to supplies needed for activities. If you know someone who wants to sign up for the virtual learning option, the first step is to visit our website and fill out the Quick Application: https:// www.lccaaforms.net/
Keeping a Routine During Uncertain Times We all know the importance of routines for children. For instance, developing a bedtime routine of tooth brushing followed by one story and a bedtime hug will make this time less challenging. When children know what to expect they are best equipped to handle even the things they don’t like to do.
Children do not do well when they lack information.
Don’t let routine disruptions get you down. Things are not always going to be perfect and predictable, but how you handle them can make a big difference in the lives of children. Do your best to keep your child informed of what is happening, if there are any changes, and what the new plan entails.
is to develop a picture schedule, since children are visual learners. Find the times during your day that you find yourself repeating requests or instructions; save your voice and let the pictures do the talking! If bedtime is your struggle, put four or five pictures together showing the expected sequence. For example:
Keep your explanations simple and remember to always validate your child’s feelings. For example: “You are disappointed because you wanted me to pick you up from school today.” You don’t have to make big promises in an effort to But now we are in uncertain times, make it better; you just need to and even our own routines have validate the feeling. been disrupted. How can we create If you don’t already have routines something for our children that we for your children, now is the time to don’t even have? develop them. One of the best ways pajamas, toothbrush, bed, story. Teach your child to consult the picture board for each step. By having a life full of routines, your child will build a strong foundation of feeling safe, which will help him or her handle the inevitable disruptions.
