The world abruptly changed this year with the emergence COVID-19. Schools throughout the United States were thrust into a new regime of virtual learning. The virus has proven to be a tougher foe than many of us anticipated: Many of the nation’s school districts opened for Fall with a continuation of the virtual learning environments that were adopted in the spring. Students will need a lot of guidance adapting, but teachers will also need support as they navigate this new virtual learning environment.
What it's like to teach in a virtual classroom
5 strategies to support teachers
The most useful thing you can do for your teachers is to prepare your kids for the work they need to do each day. This includes:
1. Keeping your child on schedule
Classes are often held up by waiting for students to log on. You can help the teacher by making sure your child is prepared. If you are able to, check-in with your kids at the beginning of each period to make sure they are logged on and ready. “I've found my own children not logged on when they should have been- sometimes just because they weren't paying attention to the time,” Dana said.
2. Doing some meal planning
No one does well on an empty stomach — it's important that your kids are fed (and hydrated) so they're alert for their teachers and have energy for the school day. Make sure the kids have breakfast and prepare their lunches ahead of time as if they were still going to their physical school.
3. Checking on your child's virtual classroom
Teachers appreciate a distraction-free environment, so when possible create a space for your child where they can concentrate. Also make sure they have the supplies they need, make sure that laptops are charged and your internet is working. Teachers need visual cues to see how individual students are processing their lessons, so confirm that your child's webcam is ON and the lighting is sufficient.
4. Communicating in a diplomatic way
Remember that this experience isn’t easy for any of us. While you absolutely should let your children’s teachers know when you see problems, inundating them with emails might not be all that useful right now.
“As hard as it is for kids and families, it's just as hard if not harder for teachers,” Dana said. “They are suddenly forced to do things in a whole new way and as you know, the technology isn't always easy. Practice patience everywhere you can.”
5. Remembering that words of thanks go a long way
A thank-you card or email can make a teacher’s day during these tough times. So do acknowledgements like flowers or gift cards, especially if the virtual learning semester bleeds into the holidays. Let your children’s teachers know their hard work is appreciated.
