Erin Einhorn writing for NBC News documented how remote learning students were more stressed than those in the classroom. The article quotes a study “84% of remote students reported exhaustion, headaches, insomnia and other stress-related ailments”.
The article identified that remote students were less likely to believe they could go to an adult to discuss grades and personal issues. As parents we need to recognize when our children are learning remotely we may need to invest some additional time in talking with them, sharing our own experiences of the challenges we are also facing and make sure they feel able to be open and honest about their stress and other concerns.
When students in classrooms are able to connect with their teacher, they are more inclined to pay attention and more apt to stay after class for additional help as needed.
Further, remote learning students report additional headaches and eyestrain, which is quite logical. Some are also reporting more back pain from sitting in a chair too long.
In addition to the schoolwork, half the students reported difficulty with Internet connections, 13% with technical issues, 13% experience distractions while another 12% find directions at times difficult to comprehend and therefore challenging to execute.
Despite these challenges’ parents have an opportunity to proactively support at home or remote learning when required. Some key steps include:
Create a daily plan and discuss the plan with your children including what the day would look like, the specific times for school and specific times for other activities
Provide a quiet environment for learning. Adults working remotely from home may struggle with distractions, students would also face the same challenge
Follow up each day and ask how the learning went. Find out what was covered and ensure all assignments were completed for the day
Many schools have research support for students and parents. Learn what is available and how to access services
Provide time and a listening ear allowing students to appropriately vent and share their feelings
The importance of learning was demonstrated in the Bible, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” (Luke 2:52) Likewise, having a teachable spirit is not only important for us mentally but also spiritually and emotionally. Learning is a lifelong experience and is important for all of us, particularly our children.
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This is well said! Parents that have experience in Home Schooling as their choice for the K-12 education will tell you that the dedication you must give to your children and youth is actually much greater because they relate to you as both Parent and Teacher. In this learning environment we now find ourselves in where we students and parents working from home are together, the student needs to identify with the parent as both parent and tutor/mentor.
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