E-learning tips for parents helping their children at home - The Orbis School

Schools are closed for quite a while, but schooling is on. Since children can’t travel, education has come to their doorstep. E-learning has become the new normal and parents have suddenly stepped into the shoes to assist educators.

Here are tips that may help children learn online:

1. Set a schedule- Create a schedule for the day, the simpler it will likely be for everyone. Provide your children the time table , you should probably revise whatever you come up with at first to fit your circumstance at home

2. Create a positive e-learning environment- First and foremost get familiar before logging on. Adequate lighting can help you physically and mentally. Open the windows and allow ventilation and natural light in. Be innovative based on your child’s learning preferences and your unique home environment. Create a study/ reading area with a large box with pillows, a place at the table/ study desk. Ensure that your child has the materials needed for the learning activity (e.g. paper, pens or pencils, digital devices). Try to limit interruptions as much as possible.

3. Have patience- Patience is very important to ensure conceptual clarity. However, every child has a unique learning curve. On the digital platform, you can spend as much time as you want on a particular topic till you get absolute clarity. The main objective is to furnish the students with the important concepts and give him the confidence. The parents' role is important in terms of being patient and motivating a child to work on the concepts. .

4. Allow breaks during online classes- A small break can be a great mental respite. Extended periods of time on computer use can lead to excessive sitting and associated negative health effects. During a break, mindfulness can calm feelings of overwhelm by making a body-mind connection. Ask your child to sit quietly for 2 minutes with eyes closed and ask to take a deep breath. It improves attention, mood and helps children cope with stress. Also, make them do short activities. It will stimulate the mind. Go for walks with children, have funny talks with them. This will help boost a child’s motivation and put them in a better mood.

5. Have fun- Many of the lifestyle changes that the current circumstance has brought in are involuntary, however, it is very important to keep a cheerful disposition while studying together with your children and keep a positive attitude. This will assist your child to cope much better with the present crisis as they are also missing their old lifestyle which includes going to school, meeting friends and other outdoor activities. Spending time with them and being able to take an active part in their studies was something unimaginable even a few months back. However, your involvement with your child will surely boost their confidence and create memories for a lifetime.