Tips for parents

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If your kids are learning from home... 

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Learning at home is a big change for both children and parents. You might try to emulate the idea of school as much as possible. The great part is that learning at home allows yourself and your child to explore which circumstances work best for them – what makes them more productive while still being comfortable. Below are some tips that will help yourself and your children.

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1. Set up a working space. It’s important for kids to have physical boundaries which tell them whether they should be working or playing. While this may be hard in smaller houses, even allocating the dining table as a ‘workspace’ could be helpful.

2. Minimise distractions. Try turning off the tv, disabling notifications on learning devices, or collecting personal devices (e.g. mobile phones) during learning time. Remember – you might be a distraction too! Try to act more as a teacher-aide than a parent.

3. Keep screen-time in mind. If your child works mostly on a laptop or electronic device, be aware of how long they spend on it. Try to break up this time with breaks and activities. If you have multiple children and limited devices, allocate time for the specific tasks that require the device and prepare all other work to be completed ‘offline’.

4. Establish a routine. Have a clear start and end time with breaks throughout the day. You may choose to follow the existing structure of your child’s school. Try allocating time periods to each task or subject, just like school.  

5. Have food breaks. This should include lunch and after or morning tea (depending on the schedule, you may choose both).

6. Allow for 'fun time'. Just like at school, you should give your child some time to play or relax. This will prevent the feeling of being burnt out or overworked. You can find some activities here. These breaks can also be used as prayer or mindfulness time.

7. Be flexible and patient. Each child will thrive in different environments and circumstances, so you may need to try out a few different things. This may include sitting on the floor instead of at a table or outside, or having smaller, more regular breaks.

8. Keep connected with other students. Allow your child to keep in touch with other students. Digital communication may compensate for the lack of physical interaction with friends.

9. Keep connected with other parents. Just like your children, you too will benefit from having connections to people who are in the same situation as you. You may like to share tips and ideas that work for you.

10. Keep connected with your children. Ask questions that allow them to feel respected and listened to, like How are you feeling?, What could we improve on?, Do you have any concerns?  Remember you may be the only person they can physically talk to – you are probably their biggest support!

11. Keep connected with the school and teachers. Parents of younger students will need to have more communication with teachers, as opposed to older students who may thrive independently. This will help to keep your children accountable for their learning. 

12. Educate yourself with the QLD Department of Education's web page about learning at home. 

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If your child cannot access an electronic device, check with the school around a laptop or iPad loan. Other options include finding open libraries, asking friends or family, or getting learning material printed out from the school. 

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Be sure to get feedback from your children to ensure they are in a supported and comfortable learning environment. 

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If your kids are going back to school...

 

Not all parents will feel comfortable sending their kids back to school. For those who are, here are some tips to make the transition easier for your children. 

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1. Social distancing is still being enforced. Let your kids know that they should not initiate or accept physical contact with others, as it could spread germs.

2. If your child participates in any during or after-school activities, check whether they are still running. Check whether social distancing rules have prompted changes to events such as the cancellation of assemblies and social events.

3. Set aside extra time to pack filling and healthy lunches, as school tuckshops and canteens may not be open. Try to get your kids involved too!

4. Ensure your child has all of their school supplies. Sharing these belongings could spread the virus further, so be prepared!

5. Drop-off and pick-up zones may have changes to limit the students from gathering. Check with the school if there have been changes. You might like to arrive earlier to beat the rush.

6. Check with your school around appropriate hygiene measures. For younger students, parents may be encouraged to walk the student in and wash their hands. Parents/guardians of older students may consider allowing their child to carry hygiene items such as sanitiser and face masks. Some schools may provide sanitiser in classrooms or set aside handwashing and desk-cleaning time for students. 

7. Be sure to keep an eye out for any behaviour changes. The idea of physically going back to school may be disheartening since they have been at home. Keep them excited about the idea of seeing their friends or getting out of the house.

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Make sure your kids understand that school is not back to ‘normal’ yet. It is best to check the school’s website or social media pages. If you are still unsure, you can contact the school. Be mindful as the school may be busy answering questions from other parents who are in the same position as you.