LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — CCSD students will be learning from home when school starts this fall. But a full-time distance education model can be a scary and frustrating idea for many parents. 13 Action News anchor Tricia Kean talks to the experts about 5 steps mom and dad can take, to help keep their cool.
"Obviously, it's hard to keep him focused," says valley mom Justine Adams.
I CAN'T DO THIS
She says helping her 10-year-old, Cooper, learn from home has its challenges.
"I've had several breakdowns since March 12th. There's been several times where I thought I can't do this anymore. I can't do all of this. I need help," says Justine.
HAVE A PLAN
She turned to the experts at NEAT Services or Nevada Educational Advocacy and Tutoring.
"Having a plan will really help. Not just flying by the seat of their pants," says NEAT Services owner Wendy Broder-Stock.
DESIGNATED WORKSPACE
Her business has been providing online services throughout the pandemic. She says every plan should start with putting your child in the right mindset.
"Having a designated workspace at home will help the child understand this is the place where I work," says Broder-Stock.
VISUAL SCHEDULE
Be sure to set up a desk or table that's free of distractions. Then put together a schedule.
"Create a visual schedule for your child for the day and week... Predictability is so important for all children," says Broder-Stock.
ZOOM MEETINGS
It's going to take some cooperation with your child's teacher. But Wendy says in a time of so much uncertainty, students need to know what they're doing from day to day. Next, be sure to provide a chance for socializing.
"One way that we do it at NEAT Services is we do group Zoom meetings with children in our center," says Broder-Stock.
HAVE FUN
Interaction with other students will be limited during the time with their teacher. So try scheduling a Zoom meeting with friends. Kids won't be getting their usual chance to hang out with their peers at lunch or recess, which is key to a child's development.
This brings us to our next step, which is to have fun! Your child's teacher may not have a lot of time for entertaining activities. So parents should try planning something.
GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK
Remember that art and music projects or physical exercise are great ways to boost a child's mood. There's a ton of great ideas online.
Finally, Wendy says don't forget to give yourself a break.
"This is a learning experience. This is a journey. You're going to do the very best you can and you have to give yourself a break. You have to have time for yourself," says Broder-Stock.
Justine says it sounds so simple, but you really do have to work at it. "Me-Time" is important for you and your child.
"What I'd really stress to parents as well is to listen to your kids. They've got a lot to say... Use the clues and the cues that your children are giving you and you'll find success," says Justine.
