Here are few tips I wanted to share. Many of us received a lot of communication from various district personnel. It was a lot of information. This topic seems very important to our success going forward.
Structure is important and room for flexibility is important to, with that said here are a few tips to guide you if you’re still in the set up phase.
Things your child may need:
computer, printer (with ink), scissors, glue, lined spiral bound notebook, pencil, highlighter, calculator
Additional items may include:
visual supports, reinforcement items, timer, sensory items (if you need visual supports reach out and I can assist you with that)
I encourage you to find a space to attend to school tasks where your child is comfortable, but not too comfortable so they can focus and take breaks from the area. It doesn’t have to be one spot. To create flexibility it’s ok to have two spaces your child can work at like the kitchen table, kitchen counter if you have that, a desk, ect.
I do encourage to keep all materials in a designated space that your child can access independently. You can keep items in a bag, basket or box, ect. Something that signifies it’s time for school (typically it’s their backpack and that still totally acceptable). That way they can travel to their designated space and this could help them transition.
Designate a time. Right now daily lessons are available on ULS/N2Y. You can see the schedule post to help guide you with times.
There is 15 minute breaks built into the schedule, but there is a lot of flexibility in the timing of the assignments. They shouldn’t take up the whole time, but they can. If they do providing additional breaks may be necessary. Typically your child works for 30 minute increments with breaks in between, some work longer and some work shorter.
During activities you might need to use a visual timer to help your child to stay on task. You can also use first work, then break to help keep your child motivated using a reinforcer. Also I know this takes a lot of patience on your part. There is usually a delay in your child’s response, but if you wait they will provide an answer. If you find yourself repeating the question take a minute to let them process. Each time we restate a question the processing time starts over. So the more time we give after a question the more likely they can independently answer. This will decrease the amount of times you ask and give the time your child needs to process the question and answer. It’s ok if they get it wrong. We all need the time to make mistakes and give us the opportunity to learn.
When your child is doing math they are allowed to use a calculator. This is a support provided in testing when necessary. We are teaching students how to use the calculator appropriately. Remind them to clear it out. Some need assistance with using the correct symbols.
If you need hard copy materials please send me an email and we will make sure you receive the materials so your child can be successful during this time.
Most importantly GRACE, so much grace for YOU and your child. This is not easy and this is more than anyone should have to do, but here we are. Let’s make the best of this situation. I think the best part so far for me is seeing the students videos. Know that I miss you all terribly and I’m looking forward to the day I get to greet you in our classroom!
Here is some helpful strategies if you need them for yourself or you child. For more information click here
Learning Together 