Home Schooling

In the uncertain times of COVID-19, we were being asked to take on challenges we may not be prepared for. One of the most substantial of these is home-schooling our children.

While this may seem daunting, there are many positives to be gained from the additional time you’ll spend educating your child:

1. The pleasure of extra one-on-one time with your child.
2. Understanding their learning style and recognising areas where they excel or need more support.
3. Minimising their exposure to external pressures and messages, providing a more controlled learning environment.

Alongside the positives, it’s important to consider ways to ensure your child keeps up with their peers during this period.

Utilise the School’s Resources and Class Notes

It is critical to utilise the resources and class notes the school provides. These curriculum materials are carefully designed to provide a standard level of learning and structure, which many children benefit from. This doesn’t mean there’s no time for play; rather, playtime should be part of a sustainable framework.

Dr Selina Samuels, an experienced educator and online learning officer, emphasises that, “the most important thing is that structure from the beginning is very important.”

Ensure You Have the Necessary Tools

Consider the tools required to complete assignments effectively. For instance, if worksheets are provided electronically, will you need to print them? If you don’t have a printer, consider emailing the files to a friend or a service like Officeworks for printing and collection.

Also, assess your internet plan to ensure it can handle additional usage for online learning. Contact your internet provider if you need to increase your data limit for a smoother learning experience.

Is Your Device Suitable for Home Schooling?

While tablets are great for games, they may not be ideal for schoolwork. Make sure your device has parental controls activated, reliable virus protection, and regular backups. You may also need access to a webcam and headphones. If you’re unsure of the best options, or if you’re struggling to find suitable equipment, we can help.

To support you through these technical requirements, we are offering a device review and cleanup service at a reduced rate of $50. This service ensures your child’s device is prepared for schoolwork, whether at home or in the classroom. We can complete this service remotely, so there’s no need for travel.

Simply call us at 02 4488 4800 to schedule your service.