Home learning tips during
Covid 19 isolation.

Many of us have just been thrown the curve ball that we are now going to be assisting our children to learn from home during the social distancing needed to combat the Covid 19 pandemic. In some ways our enforced ‘stay home’ life style means we can relax a little, especially if we are no longer racing off to work or dropping out kids to school….

But now is not the time to remove too much structure and routine from your child’s life.

Many kids are really feeling the effect of social distancing. Pretty much all external stimulation has stopped for them, no outings, visiting family, sports, in many cases going to school, playdates even a simple trip to the supermarket is now not an option. Life as they know it has stopped in many ways and with that brings a sense of uncertainty.

While some kids and parents are thriving in this more insular environment many others are really struggling with the new restrictions we are now faced with.

As a parent if you were already finding it difficult to get your child dressed or have them clean their room. Now also trying to get them to do a few hours of school work is going to be extremely challenging. If your child finds school work difficult or boring then you will really have your work cut out for you. Also remembering that your child probably already is feeling overwhelmed from losing all the ‘normal’ things they usually enjoy.

Adding to that, most parents are pretty stressed at the moment. We are worried about the future. Many families have lost income and are trying to work from home while also looking after their children.
This is a very difficult situation for all.

What can we do to ease the strain?

One way you can try and stop the power battle with your child is to give your child more control but within a framework that also generates a sense of security.

Children need structure but having choice within that system is the key.

Encouraging your child’s independence can make them more likely to listen to you. They will also more receptive to following your instructions if they feel included in the planing. By offering your child some choices you’ll find your child will actually be more compliant and enthusiastic to do what they need to do.

We can do this by simply adding a visual routine or plan of the day.

By having a visual plan kids know what to expect, they are not relying on you to tell them each step the way and then won’t feel like you are ‘controlling’ their day either.

Nagging your child to cleaning their teeth 10 times is not a good start to the day so having a visual routine of daily tasks allows your children to see what needs to be done and for them to do it.

You can check out my Starter packs and collections if you want to add a Mission Magnets daily routine. Or see my how to order for tips on ordering. Having a visual routine gives you a chance to praise your child’s progess and helps you to set them up for success.

We can also apply this system to home schooling. You can set up a visual routine with the subjects to be covered that day and get your kids involved where possible.

Simple things like planning the order or having them set up the visuals, go a long way for kids to feel like an active part of the learning.

Also don’t forget to factor in, breaks, outside play and fun activities for good behaviour. This can be a great motivator for getting your child to complete the less desireable tasks.

The key is having an agreed on visual schedule as this removes the feeling of being ‘told what to do’.

In this time of having so many restrictions placed upon us, it is really important to our well being for us to regain a sense of independence where we can.