For a few  weeks most of us have been dealing with a lot of changes. Many are now working from home and helping their kids with remote learning. Not an easy transition to say the least, but it’s possible. 

I have a 1st grader, and a kindergartner. Both which need a lot of help with computers. Oh and did I mention the toddler?  It has not been easy, especially the part where I have to pry the toddler away from the laptops. But beside from that I think we found our rhythm. And I hope you did too, but if not I thought I should share how we’re getting by. Here are 6 tips to help you with remote learning.

1. Wake up before the kids.

Use this time to breathe a little. Drink your coffee hot.  Watch your favorite show, read your book, meditate, take a shower, do whatever you like to do. I wake up at least one hour before they do, it helps me keep my sanity. 

2. View the classwork before they wake up.

Yes, do it. If there are worksheets you need to print or need to recreate this gives you a little time to start doing so. It also helps you prepare yourself by knowing how much help your child might need from you. Trust me, it makes everything fall into place so much easier. 

3. Create a schedule.

It doesn’t have to be minute by minute or super specific, but give you and your kids an idea of what the day will consist of. My daughter’s teacher helped me come up with one.

• 

• 

4. Create a work space.

You don’t have to go by a desk or anything fancy like that. All that matters is that they have a little space to be able to focus. I created a work corner with two foldout party tables we had in our garage and use the bench from our dining table. But if you would like to create a work space Ikea has super affordable desks and Walmart has great chair options for kids. Linked here are the desk chairs I bought my kids this year.

5. Know not everyday will be perfect.

Not everyday is going to be perfect, but just try to be patient. And try to keep your kids motivated, make it fun, crack a joke here and there. Sit with them and watch that science video, read that book with them, or do some math problems together. Doing this will help them stay motivated and willing to work on school assignments.

6. Did I mention not everyday will be perfect.

Seriously, don’t be too hard on yourself. Try your best, be patient, and do what you can. If you need to stop to catch your breath and sanity, then do it. Take a break, but don’t give up. Of course I can only relate to young children, so if you have older kids that’s a whole other level I have yet to unlock so I have no idea what to do or even try there.

I hope these simple tips will help you and your children with the new remote learning experience. Good luck!

Stay safe and thank you for reading!