Initially published by the Public Schools of Brookline.
Tip #1 - Set-up a consistent workspace for your student.
Reduce distractions as much as possible.
Have materials (i.e., pencil, paper, eraser) handy.
Provide headphones.
Have fidgets available for students who need them.
Tip #2 - Help your student follow a daily routine.
Write or print the daily schedule.
For young children, split the day’s schedule into am/pm.
Write on or plan movement or social activities during breaks (see tip # 3 and 4).
Set reminders on devices or use timers.
Tip #3 - Connect with your student in person or via phone during the day.
Ask about what s/he did in school so far or ask about specific subjects.
Give your student positive feedback for working hard and participating in school activities that day.
Plan fun movement breaks, activities, or lunch that you can do together (if possible).
Let your student know when you will connect.
Tip #4 - Plan fun movement breaks.
Outside activity ideas - scooter, walk, hopscotch, basketball/football/soccer
Inside activity ideas - Go Noodle, Just Dance, dance party, freeze dance, 10 push-ups, jumping jacks, squats
Do yoga outside or inside.
Tip #5 - Plan social breaks.
Schedule Zoom snack breaks with friends.
Make a lunch date with a friend via Zoom or socially distant outside.
Tip #6 - Do mindfulness activities to manage stress and anxiety.
Encourage your student to take deep breaths when showing signs of stress.
Draw, doodle, or color during breaks and after school.
Listen to relaxing music.
Just breathe.
Say something positive.
Tip #7 - Support literacy.
Read with your student when you can.
Ask your student about the book or story s/he is reading or listening to.
Discuss a book you have read or are reading.
Tip #8 - Encourage daily math practice.
Follow a recipe - point out fractions, add, subtract, multiply, divide, measure.
Count everything - food items, jumping jacks, pencils, legos.
Play math games - UNO, Dominoes, Connect 4
Tip #9 - Motivate your student.
Praise your student for doing his/her best work and following expectations.
Plan preferred after-school and weekend activities to reward your student for working hard during remote learning.
Start a Hard-Work Jar - add a cotton ball to the jar to reward your student for working extra hard - plan a bonus fun activity when the jar is full.
Tip #10 - Take care of yourself.
Recognize it is okay to be stressed and worried.
Plan activities for your emotional or physical wellness - go for a walk, enjoy a treat, talk to a friend.
Express gratitude.
Focus on what you can control.