Several years ago, online schooling was made available for K–12 students, but even in the best of times, there are challenges associated with virtual education. Although this pandemic is stressing many parents, managing the hurdles and hiccups of online school have never been more difficult.
As you worry about your child’s social development, have technical difficulties, and are unable to access teachers, you may feel drained.
I offer these tips to help you stay calm and sane while your child does school online if you’re feeling frustrated and not sure how much more you can handle.
The need for recess doesn’t just apply to kids. Parents need to take breaks, too. Give yourself a break when you are feeling overwhelmed by your child’s virtual school.
You can step outside for a few minutes if you are able or take a 15-minute break in your bedroom if your child is too young for you to leave alone. Consider taking a walk, pausing work for a short game, or dancing with your child to a favorite song to break up the day.
Having a hard time taking a break? Fill your mental and emotional reserves during the hours after school.
Take time for yourself – [take deep breaths, learn how to let go, pick your battles, listen to soothing music], advises psychologist Usman. It is in the children’s best interests if they are healthy mentally and physically.
Virtual Education: Tips for Parents
Communicate regularly
There is a lack of communication at the root of many virtual education stressors. Your partner, the teachers at your child’s school, and parents should all be in regular communication.
It is a good idea to work out a schedule with your partner so that you can share the load. Furthermore, parents should help teachers better understand how to help their children with online education by communicating concerns about children’s learning styles. By giving your input – and making sure your questions are answered – you can avoid future frustrations.
Related: 16 Fun and Free Educational Websites for Kids
Get Social
When you are feeling agitated, taking to social media might seem like an easy way out. If you are frustrated, don’t express it en masse; have a one-on-one with someone dear to you.
Talking to others can help reduce stress and help your mind and body relax, says Usman. We are more resilient to life’s difficulties when we are connected to social networks.”. [1]
You can still get much-needed support from your friends, even if they are not parents themselves. If you’re not afraid to share your true feelings, choose someone you can trust.
Usman says many people find that talking to someone supportive relieves their stress and makes them more comfortable, rather than keeping stressful thoughts inside and not sharing them.
Read Also: What Are The Eight Best Educational Apps For Kids In 2021?
Ask for Help
Although it can be tough to admit you can’t do it all, asking for help will help you maintain a healthy mindset during your online education.
To best offer your family assistance, Usman points out that now is the time to ask for assistance. If you are suffering from depression, you may find support from a friend, partner, family member, or someone else close to you. Don’t be afraid to take emotional support, financial assistance, or childcare help during these trying times; most people want to help.”
Celebrate the Wins
Right now, you’re juggling a lot. The switch to online education for your child is a big one, regardless of the size of your family or whether or not you work.
Focus on small victories to remain positive despite the additional stress. Is your child getting great grades on assignments? Are you able to keep your cool on a day like today?
You deserve kudos for managing a difficult situation and acknowledging the positives. Positive thinking is associated with better mental and physical health. [2]
Helping kids cope with stress
When we are all too busy worrying about our own adult worries, we often forget that kids are dealing with their own problems. By assisting your child with any underlying tensions or worries, online education will likely go more smoothly (and more smoothly for you as well).
Usman says children’s brains process stress differently than adults since they are also stressed by all the changes. Approximately one in five youths struggle to keep up with the constant changes.
The most important thing for children is to feel supported, so schedule more one-on-one time as a way to stay in touch with them.
Provide your child with some time away from the situation by allowing them to play outdoors or allowing them to interact safely with a friend.
Discover: The 7 Best Science Websites for Kids
Don’t take it out on your kids
It’s important to remember the most important principle when managing the increased stress levels associated with online schooling: Don’t take it out on your children.
It is in your children’s best interests. Anxiety caused by parents’ meltdowns is not beneficial to children. Nonetheless, that does not mean your life has to be perfect all the time.
Usman advises her clients to be honest with them about how she is balancing multiple roles while helping them.
You should also take a mental “timeout” when you feel overwhelmed. Even a few minutes away from your computer screen can help you maintain your focus.
Related: The Most Beneficial Science Websites for Elementary Students
A Word From Kids Rush
Every aspect of virtual education will become second nature to the entire family the longer the child is involved. Stress will gradually recede as the intensity decreases.
If, during your online education, you find yourself feeling disoriented, be mindful of your self-care, keep connecting with those around you, and acknowledge that you are doing your best.
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