As a result of the measures taken to control the COVID-19 pandemic, many children are not attending their regular school or early learning center and may not do so for some time. This is leading schools to develop educator led, home-supported learning. As a parent, you can be an effective partner in this learning. Below are some key learning concepts for you to keep in mind as you navigate your new, expanded role. For full details, download the document
SUPPORT, DON'T REPLACE, WHAT TEACHERS DO
Teachers are degree trained professionals, often with many years of classroom experience. You cannot replace them or do their job, and that isn't expected of you. Schools are preparing and delivering their model of educator led, home-supported learning. You are the critical, homebased person who can help with that learning but follow their lead. There are very important things you can do to set your children up for success.
SET UP FOR SUCCESS
- Create an orderly environment for learning, for example, by limiting distractions
- Help to set and reinforce routines and timetables
- Support children to be ready for learning, including ensuring they have the materials that they need
- Engage in meaningful conversations about learning
- Communicate with your child's teacher if they need additional support
THINKING ABOUT THINKING
Build a positive attitude to learning. It begins with children feeling loved, safe and supported. It incorporates a ‘growth mindset’; which emphasizes that people aren’t born with a fixed amount of intelligence. Instead they can always take their abilities to the next level with perseverance and thoughtfulness. It also helps children see mistakes as a guide for what needs to be learnt next. Parents can model a growth mindset by speaking aloud about their own mindsets.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Reminds us the learning brain works like a muscle; it only grows with practice. We need lots of effort to grasp new concepts and skills, and we can easily forget them without reinforcement. But once they’re automatic, they can be effortlessly drawn on when going it to the next level of challenge
MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS
Shows how good dialogue in the home strengthens what is being taught by the educator. It starts with just talking and building language and reasoning skills through expressing ourselves. It develops into effective ways to give feedback– not just praising talent or effort
You can download the Parental Guide to Home Learning here
Source: The Education Endowment Foundation - COVID 19