Kim Haven of Club Z Tutoring of Northborough offers some strategies for managing the new hybrid and remote learning models.
There is no question that our school days don’t look anything like they did just a year ago. While we used to worry mostly about planning outfits, lunches and homework time, this year there is infinitely more to think about. The first few weeks were spent worrying about meeting teachers and finding Zoom links, but now it’s time to think about how we can make this work for the long term. Here are a few strategies that may help:
Set Up a Workspace
Each kid (and working parent!) will need an independent workspace. Ideally this space is not in a bedroom—better to separate school stress from the place where they sleep—but we recognize that it may be challenging to find another quiet place. If the workspace does end up in the bedroom, make sure that the desk area stays clutter free and does not double as a make-up vanity, a video game station or a dumping ground for toys or knickknacks. A few other things to consider when setting up a workspace:
- Have a comfortable, upright desk chair—or consider alternative seating such as an exercise ball.
- Make sure there is good lighting—ideally an overhead light plus desk lamp, and open shades for natural light where possible
- Minimize distractions. Phones should be kept somewhere other than the workspace and try to limit background noise including TVs, music, pets and even siblings.
Follow a Morning Routine
Students should follow a morning routine whether they are heading to school or will be learning from home. Don’t just roll out of bed and turn on the Chromebook.
- Get out of bed and change clothes—even if it’s just to put on another pair of sweats.
- Go through a typical personal hygiene routine (wash face or shower, brush teeth and hair). This will leave students feeling more awake and prepared for a full day of learning.
- Spend some time away from the workspace before the day kicks off. This might mean heading outside for a quick morning stretch, or heading to the kitchen for breakfast and conversation.
- Sit down at least five minutes before the first class starts and get prepared for what’s ahead.
Keep Organized
Organization comes naturally to some students and is a struggle for others—but it is something worth working at, especially given the inconsistent nature of schedules this year.
- Have a printed or handwritten schedule posted at or near your workspace
- Use an agenda, and keep it on your desk! There are online apps for this too, but in most cases, nothing beats a good old-fashioned to-do list!
- Designate a space for school books, notebooks and binders that stay home—and make sure they are always returned to the same spot so they don’t go missing.
- Keep a separate pencil case at home and one for school, so that you always have what you need nearby.
Watch this space over the next few weeks for more tips specific to hybrid and remote learning. And remember, never be afraid to ask for help on anything from subject matter to organization skills to time management. Reach out to teachers, administrators and guidance counselors if your student is struggling. Or call us at Club Z Tutoring if you need additional resources.