They're not "falling behind."
They're surviving a pandemic!
I saw this phrase posted on Twitter the other day, and it struck a nerve.
Well, technically, yes, they are falling behind academically from where they should be at this point in their lives. And I know that frustrates teachers, parents, and administrators.
The pandemic has been very difficult on all of us, but the children have had their lives uprooted. Yet, many of the children don't even understand why!
They can't see their friends. They can't see their teachers. They can't have conversations. They have to sit in front of a screen, and do assignments with little or no interaction. Their parents are frustrated if they need attention or help, as they are trying to do their own work. Or worse, their parents aren't there.
Even those who are lucky enough to be in school aren't having the expected school experience. They can't sit next to each other. They can't work in small groups. They can't share materials. They have to wear masks all the time.
It is a rare child who has the self motivation to pay attention during online learning, do assignments independently, and pass them in on time. After all they're kids!
These poor kids!
With new vaccines being released, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It's not forever!
Help them to understand this... it's not easy for little ones!
But I hope to think of this as a time where they are growing in other areas.
It's a good time to focus on their whole well-being, not just academics.
How can we do that? Simple! Talk to them, learn what interests them, let them explore those things.
Right now, they're really needing to socialize, yet it's not easy with social distancing. Look for ways to get them talking to each other in safe ways... break out Zoom groups, socially distanced chats, and I'm sure there are other ways if we can be creative!
Here are a few other ideas to take the pressure off the academics and let children explore and learn other, important life skills:
Cooking and baking - besides the following directions and math skills, children are learning to be self-sufficient!
Take walks - As long as they're socially distanced, walking is not only good exercise, but it's a great way to explore the world.
Spend time outside - besides walking, there are plenty of outdoor places to visit and outdoor things to do that are safe and will get them breathing fresh air and getting excited about things going on around them! Children can learn about gardening, shadows, rainbows, qualities of air, properties of water, local animals, and plenty more!
Play board games - There are so many things children learn from playing board games! Just make sure you don't always let them win. Losing gracefully is an important skill!
And the most important thing we can do: Read to them! - I can't emphasize this enough. Read daily. Talk about the books. Let them choose the books. Choose books that will get them talking. Make it the best part of the day! (It's always my favorite time of the day!)
I've always been a believer that we are happier when we have something to look forward to. Right now, that's more important than ever! They might need your help with this, but I'm sure you can help the children find something positive in their future!
You know, I truly believe the academics will level off. They won't be behind forever!
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