Following a curriculum at home has its challenges, and for parents who have had to work from home, or go to work, it would seem a rather busier than ordinary day for them.
With the present day technology available, most children are fortunate enough to follow through with work assigned to them each week. It is concerning for those children who do not have the means for the technology necessary to complete their school tasks, though I am sure they would have been provided with necessary work specific to their grade.
It has definitely been a challenge for children in the sense of being responsible with a routine so as not to think they’re on an extended school break. Ensuring kids maintain their routines and after school chores are so important for their well being. It distracts them from boredom and keeps them away from trouble.
Patience, I’ve learnt, is key to providing the guidance and supervision for homeschooling. For some it may not be easy, as our kids can try to manipulate different situations and extend their snack breaks!
I often wonder how teachers magically facilitate their class of about 20 children, and how the children are mesmerized into staying focused for that longer time at school.
With some children returning to school soon, it would be interesting to see whether most children are excited to return, or would rather continue with homeschooling( I think most of us know the truth ☺️).
Parents and educators need to ensure health and safety of the children. Educate them about wearing their masks correctly, ensuring it covers their nose and mouth; they need to be aware of social distancing maintaining 1,5-2 meters apart (2 arms length) from their friends during interval; educate them about surfaces, and ensuring they practice safe and proper (washing all areas of both hands) hand hygiene (20 second rule) after touching surfaces and before they eat, and after using the ablution. They should not be sharing meals or utensils ( it unfortunately defeats the “sharing is caring” that they’ve been ingrained with), but if we educate them on the virus then they have a better understanding of why they’re doing what they have to do. As much as it seems as a paranoid time that we’re living in, it’s a very real time in this pandemic that we have to adjust to... a new way of living. You can never be too careful. We are fighting a silent battle, we have to be the wiser and equip ourselves and our families with knowledge and ensure we practice common sense. Be aware and educate your children on the symptoms such as cough, sore throat, diarrhea, fatigue, body aches, shortness of breath. Don’t take any symptoms lightly, especially now that we are entering the flu season and change of weather.
Our children require a lot of emotional support and guidance at this time, so that they are not overwhelmed with fear and anxiety. Chatting to them about what is currently happening is important for them to understand, thereby allaying their concerns and fears.
It is going to mean a change in our lifestyle and definitely requires a change in our attitudes. We can and will overcome this.
Stay safe 🌹
#keepthekidssafe
