Just six months ago, the phrase “online schooling” was reserved for a very small percentage of school-aged students. There are many reasons a parent could have chosen online schooling for their child, pre-coronavirus. Now, online schooling is the first (and in some places, only) choice to kick off the 2020-2021 school year.

Online learning will come with changes to productivity, time management, and routine. But not all hope is lost! Given the advancements in technology, students today are set up for success and have the tools to help them along. Online portals like Zoom, Google Classroom, and Edgenuity are paving the way to a smooth transition to online schooling. GIA scholars, specifically, are well-prepared for online learning through the past and current embrace of some of these programs.

If your student is having a difficult time adjusting to online learning, below are a few tips for getting back on track for the school year, and staying there.

  1. Consider setting up “school” in a separate room or area of your home. By having the computer, tablet, and other learning materials in a separate space, school will feel a lot more like school. Your student will know that when school begins, they should move to the designated area, and when school is over for the day, they can leave all of their items there.
  2. Help your student set up a time, perhaps during their lunch period, to Zoom with their friends. This will help with the lack of social interaction throughout their day. And on that same note, engage with your student about his or her day. What is one new things they learned? What was their favorite part about the day? What is one thing they will continue to do, or do differently, tomorrow?
  3. Encourage outside time for play or PE, just as they would have with in-person schooling. Emphasizing the importance of physical activity for just 20-30 minutes a day is extremely important in aiding productivity, mood, and overall feelings about going to school online.
  4. Consider participating in online tutorials or watching “tips & tricks” videos with your student on some of the programs they may have to use. Not only will your student learn a thing or two, but by becoming familiar with the programs yourself, you may be able to help your child in the future or have answers to time-sensitive technical questions.
  5. Understand that there will be good days and bad days. Be patient with your student (and with yourself!) as you all navigate the new normal of online schooling.

Questions or comments? Please reach out to us at [email protected], and someone from GIA will be happy to chat with you.