Online Learning
Focusing on Online Learning, We have all been there. "Pay Attention!" "Focus!" "Why aren't you at the computer?!?" This year, parents have been asked to be the nanny, the work-from-home employee, the cook, the maid, and most recently, the teacher. On top of everything else, we now have to figure out a way to keep our energetic and cooped-up kids focused on school. As parents ourselves, we get it - it is HARD! Here are a few suggestions to help keep your virtual schooler's attention:
1. Establish a Routine - It can be so easy to take advantage of the online learning by letting your virtual schooler sleep in, stay in their pajamas, eat at their desk. And while this is a nice relief every once in a while, it is important for the kids to have a consistent routine. We all know kids thrive on structure. They need a routine that they can rely on, much like when they are attending in-person school.
2. Choose a Couple Learning Spots - Take a minute to carefully evaluate your child's ideal learning environment and pick a couple spots in the house that they can use. More than one spot is ideal - when their concentration starts dwindling, you can always offer a change of scenery.
3. Eliminate Distractions as Much as Possible - A clear workspace without clutter, toys, and TV within eyesight works well, although sometimes not possible. If in a bind, try using a cardboard box or a tri-fold project board from the dollar store to partition them off from the distractions - much like their own learning cubicle. They can help you decorate it - making it more likely to be used. Also keep in mind lighting and noise - some children need more, some less. Try out a few things to see what works best. Last, make sure all their supplies are at their learning spot. Searching for supplies can add to the opportunity for a distraction.
4. Take Purposeful Breaks - One challenge with online learning is the expectation to sit stationary all day. This is not realistic for most youngsters. It's not realistic for most adults either. Work in movement breaks, a change of scenery, and other breaks at regular intervals. If returning to learning from break periods is a problem, try setting a timer to let them know when break is over.
5. Use Alternative Seating - Another awesome thing about online learning is that your child doesn't have to sit at a traditional desk all day, which can be hard for some kiddos. Get creative and allow your child to stand, sit on a yoga ball, use a wiggle seat, lay on the floor, or even sit in a swing.
6. Snack Wisely and Keep Their Water Flowing - Chewing and sucking can be calming sensory activities that helps focus. Plan on some crunchy or chewy snacks available - preferably low in sugar and carbs so as not to cause a counterproductive sugar crash and a sleeping, unfocused kid. A spout-top water bottle also gives more sensory input that takes little brain power and attention from the task at hand.
7. Provide Simple Sensory Tools as Needed - There are so many school-based sensory toys and tools that you can use. Some of our favourites and most cost effective are teething necklaces (for the oral learner), foot fidget (a ball to roll beneath their feet works well), weighted lap pad (something that can suppress their autonomic nervous system, calm them, and enforce focus), and yoga ball (for the bouncy learner).
8. Teach Your Child to Let You Know When They are Having a Hard Time - Although they will need help at first, eventually, your child can learn to use these strategies independently. Still, much like us, they will still have hard days and when they do, teach them that they can come to you and say "I'm having a hard time focusing." If they know you understand and that you can help, they will be much less likely to have a meltdown when they are struggling.
With all of these suggestions, remember to monitor its ability to help or hurt. Every kid is different and sometimes these can be more of a distraction. No matter the approach, know that you are in good company and you are doing a great job! We are all in this together!