5 At Home Productivity Pointers
This year parents have had more of a peek into their children’s learning styles than ever before. While kids have been in and out of in-class learning the burden has been put on parents to make sure their kids stay on track but also stay healthy and happy. We’ve come up with a list of tried and true tactics that parents can use to encourage productivity and focus in their kids without stepping over the line.
Become problem solvers. Instead of having your kids run to you whenever they’re stuck on a school problem (because you’re probably trying to solve your own work problems) teach them to try out three solutions first. Chances are one of those solutions will be right if not very close to the answer. And when you’re done your work you can walk through the answer with them if they haven’t gotten it right this time.
Stick to a schedule. Studies show that children respond well to rules. Make it clear what your school work rules are around the house. Maybe it means no TV until everything is done or maybe it’s only eating healthy meals on school nights and saving less nutritious “fun” meals for the weekends. Pick a plan and stick to it!
Limit Screen Time. This is a tip we can probably all use. As kids get older screens are incorporated more and more into their learning. If students are learning from home almost all of that work is done through a screen. Be strict about carving screen-free time into your days. Go for long walks in nature without phones. Read at night instead of watching TV or playing games. Always be aware of the need to balance screen-time and non screen-time for the entire family.
Creative corners. Have a space in your house where your child can go to spend creative time without needing you to set it up. If you hear them call out, “I’m bored” while you’re in the middle of a work call or just doing your own thing they can go there and entertain themselves with some crafts, a bit of reading or working on a building project. Keep dangerous objects like scissors and glue guns tucked away for when you’re ready to supervise and always go over when you have time to check in on how they’re doing or what they’ve created.
Break it up. Remember that kids need breaks too. If they’ve been working at home all day or had a demanding day in the classroom, break it up with a fun and different activity. Ask your child if they are emotionally, physically or mentally tired or if they are bored and restless. Depending on their response pick an activity to calm them down or rev them up. They’ll also appreciate spending time with you and having you be in tune with their needs.