Advice to Parents around Home Learning
First and most importantly…..
These are unprecedented times and nobody has been in this position before. Schools are learning how to set Home Learning and you, the parents and carers, are learning how to deliver your child’s education. Some things will work and some things won’t – that is OK. Everyone is trying their best and, with good communication, everything will get sorted.
So please, stay calm about the prospect of Home Learning and keep your perspective.
Some points to note:
· This is not homeschooling where you have chosen and planned to be your child’s teacher. In these circumstance you can only do the best you can with the materials you have been given. Your child will not fall behind.
· You are, and always have been, your child's primary educator. If you decide that your child isn't going to engage with anything sent home, that is OK. There is nothing to stress or feel guilty about.
· The work that is sent home (made available on the website) and all the website links are a guide, some options for things to do when educating your child. It is up to you how much your children do – all, some, none. Nobody is judging or comparing.
· The best thing you can do is connect with your child and spend time with them. It is a great opportunity to improve their life skills in so many ways.
· Neither the teacher or yourselves can replicate the school classroom at home, it is just simply not possible, so don’t try. Do the best you can with what you have.
· Some of you are trying to work from home as well, which is a priority. Don’t feel guilty about having the TV on just so you can get a couple of hours peace to do some work.
Most importantly, look after your, and your children’s, health and wellbeing.
Here are five simple things that experts recommend to help yourself during this period:
1. Maintain regular contact with family and friends
Social interaction is important; technology can help us all stay close.
2. Stay connected
Take time to check in daily. We are all in this situation together and here to support one another.
3. Limit media exposure, and use only reliable sources
Keeping informed is good; non-stop news is not.
4. Take care of yourself to reduce stress and increase immunity
Get enough sleep, eat well and exercise if you can, meditate
5. Share your strength … and your concerns
If you feel great, help someone out; if you do not feel great, accept help
Speak to someone: a friend, co-ordinator, our leadership team or a help line.
We appreciate and thank you for your ongoing cooperation and understanding, as we do our best to ensure the learning continuity for all of our students who cannot physically attend school. We will continue to be in contact with parents and caregivers as the situation develops.