It’s back-to-school season! … And it doesn’t look like it ever has before. The majority of Oregon schools are planning on distance learning for most of this school year, which leaves many parents at a loss for how to support their kids and set them up for success in uncharted territories. Here are a few things to consider as you and your family makes this transition. Above all, know that you’re not alone! We’re all in this together, doing the best we can. Be kind to yourself!

Space

Set up a designated schoolwork station for your child if they don’t already have one. When our living spaces become multi-purpose, it is very important to maintain clear lines between work areas and rest areas. This will help the student stay focused when doing schoolwork, and turn off when it’s time to play or rest.

Just like your home office, make sure your child’s distance learning space is set up ergonomically! They should be able to reach the mouse or keyboard easily without reaching too far, and their monitor should be at eye level. Beware of using tablets for distance learning as prolonged forward head posture from looking down at the screen their lap might result in headaches or back pain. It’s never too early to benefit from good ergonomics!

Screen

The switch to distance learning will undoubtedly result in an increase in screen time. Natural blue light from sunshine plays an important role in the way our bodies regulate the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm), however blue light from digital devices can decrease contrast leading to digital eyestrain. Check in with your child to see if they are experiencing fatigue, dry eyes, headache, difficulty focusing or other symptoms of eyestrain, and consider seeing our friends next door at The Eye Department for a check-up or blue light-blocking glasses.

Schedule

We’ve all been experiencing the stress of shifting schedules, and our kids even more so. It’s important to set up a structure that works for them and for you. Work with your child to create a daily or weekly schedule that meets your child’s needs, outlines which tasks are to be done when, and designates times that you can be available to help. If you’re also working from home, this will help you manage your own schedule and will help kids feel supported.

Social, Physical, & Creative Time

Remember that an in-person school day is not only academic. At school kids spend time in elective classes like art, music, and shop; physical activities like P.E. and intramural sports; and they get social time with their peers. Don’t forget to set aside time for these during distance learning as well.

• Regular “recess” breaks to get up, get outside and move has been shown to increase focus while working.

• Schedule virtual meet-ups with friends

• Have your child choose a creative activity to pursue e.g. coloring, drawing, dance, cooking, etc.

A benefit of distance learning is that students are not necessarily confined to a desk. This might be a great time to find your child’s learning style and give them the chance to learn while standing or moving.

Emotional Health

It might be helpful for kids to start a journal where they can process all of the changes and emotions they’re experiencing. Depending on the person, your child might work well with a traditional journal, but they may prefer art journaling, drawing, or making video-diaries (make sure they know it doesn’t have to be on social media, it’s just for them). Or set aside a specific time each night for them to talk to a parent or sibling about what what their experience is and what they might be feeling. This is a great time to start healthy stress-management habits!