What a week! I thought we were going on Spring Break, not starting the beginning of what has become. We did not go anywhere for the break and did exactly what we were told/asked to do, stay away from others. This in itself has been challenging. I love my kids, but in short doses. We did get out and do some hiking which caused my kiddos some minor discomfort, as you can see in the photo below. Getting outside is a good thing for sure, but too much too soon? I digress.
Now that we are all off for a while I felt it would be good to write this for my friends who have kiddos, now students, that they are not sure what to do with. First, take a breath. Education is not hard if you are equipped with resources and a “call a friend” card. This is that resource and that “call a friend” guideline.
The most important aspect of homeschooling your kiddos is your and your student’s mental health. End this time with memories, not regrets. Find time to enjoy your kiddos and do something fun. Hiking (in unpopulated areas), playing board games, or even watching a movie together are great ways to interact. Watching Create TV or the Travel Channel are both educational and entertaining. Use TV as an opportunity for reading also. Turn on the closed captioning (CC) on all TV shows you watch. This will turn all shows into a read-aloud book.
There are a lot of free programs for students to use at home, but they do not take the place of interaction. Set down with your student and work through these programs together. This is the BEST way for your student to learn, with you not just with the program.
Khan Academy is an amazing program that is free. You can choose from a number of activities that are on grade level for your student. This website includes video tutorials for you and your student to learn from then apply the new knowledge.
ABCYA is another program that focuses on multiple subjects but it is set in a game mode of learning. There are good activities, but be cautious, not all games are academic and your student will need your guidance in this learning adventure.
W3 Schools is a website for your future coder. This site will teach you the proper way to code HTML5 and Javascript including videos and tutorials. In my opinion, coding is a language everyone should know a little about.
Storyline Online is a site that has famous actors reading books to the world. There are a lot of benefits to this for your emerging reader. Students get the opportunity to hear a text come alive as these talented actors lend their craft to an author's words. You may even get pulled into this lively reading venture.
Science is a subject that gets overlooked, but it is vital in the learning process. YouTube can be a good resource if you know what to look for. YouTube channels for education SciShow Kids, Crash Course Kids, WizPops, and Peekaboo Kids are all great resources for science-based learning. I enjoy these creators' content and feel it can help your learners in their quest for answers and generating questions.
Lastly, go on vacation! No, not in your car, but on your computer. Go on a virtual tour of National Parks in 360 with Google. These videos will allow you to learn from park rangers and by clicking and dragging you can view the video in 360 without goggles. Check it out you will enjoy the Covid19 free experience.
Have your student(s) write about their day in a journal. Don't use this as a writing lesson, use this as an opportunity for your student to learn about the love of writing. Don't critique the work, just let them enjoy the process. You should write with them. This showed them you are willing to learn with them, not at them.
Don’t forget to enjoy your time. Love on your kids and enjoy this time with them. Remember, this soon will pass.
Doug Greek
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