To help contain Covid-19, many schools this fall are offering remote instruction instead of or in combination with in-person education. Here are some tips for parents to help support their child’s success. Remember Just by showing an interest in their learning, being available to help, and giving praise for their efforts, you are helping your child to succeed.

• Stick with typical school routines. Starting the day with routines such as getting up at the usual time, eating breakfast, dressing in school clothes, and gathering school materials will get your child in the mindset for learning.
• Create a workspace. Have an area away from the TV and other distractions where your child is comfortable and can conduct their homework or online lessons. It doesn’t have to be fancy but should be organized, personalized, and functional.
• Develop a daily schedule. Hang a daily schedule on the refrigerator, bedroom door, or somewhere where the child and family can see it each day to help with maintaining routines. Include a time in the schedule for switching off all phones and electronic devices and instead read books, make crafts, or play games with the family.
• Incorporate exercise and breaks in the schedule. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that young children break for 10 minutes of physical activity following every 20 minutes of instruction. Older children and teens should break between subjects or 45-50 minute instructional blocks. 
• Encourage social contact with peers. It is important for the social and emotional well being of children for them to have social contact with their classmates. This can be done with virtual homework, study groups, or other social media.
• Ask for help. It’s okay to be anxious. These are unprecedented times, and everyone is expanding their educational toolbox. So give yourself grace and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Here are some RMU resources that you may find useful:
  • Reading resources, K-12
  • Math resources, K-12
  • “RMU Recommends” books, apps, and websites

Vicki Donne is an endowed professor and department head of education, and director of the RMU Trees Network, which provides services and training to enhance supports for children and adolescents with mild, moderate, or severe intellectual disabilities and their families. She was a special education teacher in public schools for 15 years.