How to Survive Distance Learning
By: Jessica Holman
Tags: Distance Learning, Parenting, Kids, Elearning, Education

Photo by Tengyart on Unsplash

Not used to having the kids home all day? Missing your previous day job that didn’t involve denying a six-year-old snacks every ten minutes? Want to rip your hair out trying to remember third-grade math?

You are not alone.

I admit I am not the most patient person in the world, so staying home with the kids never even crossed my mind. I struggle to help them with their regular homework, let alone their entire day of learning.

Here’s the thing though, if you think it’s going to be frustrating and that it’ll suck, then that is exactly what will happen. Our first day of distance learning didn’t go well because my attitude toward it was all wrong. I realized to get through distance learning, I had to embrace it.

I didn’t have to like it but I did have to accept it and deal with it.

After all, I got my degree completely online so it wasn’t like I didn’t know how to do it. All I needed to do was get the kids into it.

They weren’t happy about not being able to go to school either so I had to find a way to make it bearable for all of us.

Here is what we came up with that can help you and your kids out if you are struggling with distance learning.

Commit to a schedule

Depending on the state and school, they may provide you with a set schedule but you may not be able to follow it. You might have your own work to do, errands to run, and so on.

The kids had a schedule at regular school so it’s good to have one while learning from home. Kids like consistency even if they won’t admit it. And I like it too.

If planning and scheduling isn’t your thing or yours isn’t working out, ask their teachers for some help. They are experts at planning and organizing. Most will have no problem giving you a schedule to follow.

Make a space

Being home can have a lot of distractions for kids trying to focus on learning. They have access to all their games and toys, the pets are after them for attention, and they think the kitchen is an all-day buffet.

You have to section off a work area for them that is only for school work. You don’t have to set up anything fancy, pick a quiet area, low traffic, and minimal distractions.

This could be a spare bedroom or office, a corner of their room, the dining room table, or wherever you want.

We are in the process of moving and have no furniture so we’ve had to make do with lawn chairs and an empty room. Not ideal but we can upgrade them once we get settled in. My point is you can make do with limited resources.

If they have an area designated for only school work it will help keep them focused. They will associate that space with their school work instead of playing.

Keep them engaged by participating

As I said, the first day of distance learning at our house did not go well. I tried to do my own work and clean the house while they were doing their school work. I ended up getting irritated because the kids needed me every three seconds. Fun fact, with little kids, you can’t just sit them in front of a screen and walk away. Not going to happen, especially when they aren’t used to it. Unless your kids are perfect angels of course, lucky you.

In the beginning, it’s a good idea to sit with them to help them stay on track. That way you can answer questions, fix computer issues, and encourage them. It might be boring for you but once they get the hang of it you will be able to drift further away and get your work done.

Live classes can be more beneficial

If your schedule allows I recommend having the kids attend live classes if they are offered. My kids really enjoy interacting with their teachers and fellow students. Especially my first grader who is very social anyway. My third grader is a little more reserved but prefers the live classes to watching a video because he can ask questions.

Live classes are optional for us but I try not to miss any because the kids like them so much and it breaks up the monotony of distance learning. It can also be entertaining watching the other kids and listening to them ask and answer questions.

Take lots of breaks

I’d rather sit at the computer and grind for a few hours until the work was done. But little kids aren’t wired for that. They can’t sit there and focus for six hours straight in one spot. My six year old can barely make it 30 min.

So, we take lots of breaks. When I sense I’m about to lose them, we all stop and do something else. They usually like to go outside and play and this gives me time to get some work done as well.

Sometimes we have a snack, play a game, or even veg out watching a cartoon. They’ve even offered to help me out with some chores, just to get up and do something. So sweet.

Trust in the teachers

They may be new to distance learning as well but they are professional educators. Most only want what is best for the kids and I commend them for adapting to the new world we now live in. It’s been easy for us to go with their recommendations and most have been very helpful and eager to answer all our questions.

Communication is important. Stay in contact with their teachers consistently and ask questions when needed, they are there to help.

Patience is a virtue

The first time I had to set up the kid’s Chromebook I wanted to chuck it across the room. I’m an apple snob, what can I say. But after a few emails, we got it all figured out. There really is no point losing your cool, especially in front of the kids. They need to know we can handle ourselves when things don’t go our way. Don’t forget you may need some breaks too.

Take Away

Schedules are good for kids, they like structure so try to stick to one.

Give them their own workspace to get their minds right.

Some hand-holding will be needed to keep them focused.

Try to participate in live classes, they are the closest to the real thing.

Breaks are good for the kids as well as you.

Trust the teachers and know they only want to do their jobs and do them well.

We are all doing the best we can right now. Be patient. It’ll keep the kids calm and keep your blood pressure down.

Kids themselves are actually pretty adaptable. We adults tend to be the stubborn ones. Take it one day at a time and you’ll get through this and the kids will still like you afterward.