Early Childhood Education Distance Learning Tips for Parents

Remote learning has taken center stage with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in the United States. Now, early childhood educators have to collaborate with families more than ever to create play-based, child-centered learning. Here's how parents can support educators and help create an interactive, constructive learning environment for their own children.

Create a Productive Learning Space

Help your child stay motivated and focused by setting up their own learning space. This doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, a small table or even a designated spot at the kitchen table will do—just make sure that distractions and clutter are at a minimum. Stock their learning area with common school and art supplies and even encourage them to decorate it!

Having a designated learning area can help separate your child’s regular home time from school time. Make it clear that when they're in their learning space, it's time to focus on their school activities.

Stick to a Schedule

Establishing a regular schedule can help both you and your child get through the day. This schedule will depend on how your child's online learning is structured, but the most important thing is to be consistent. Start schoolwork at the same time each day and allow brain breaks between lessons and even during activities to help your child stay focused. Make sure to set aside snack breaks and a regular lunch break at the same time each day. While distance learning may not be a familiar routine at first, following a similar schedule every day can help your child feel more comfortable and familiar with this new normal.

Build Parent-Teacher Relationships

Staying in touch with your child's teacher throughout the school year can help foster better learning experiences. Try to set up a day and time each month to connect—bring any schoolwork issues, technology struggles, or general questions you have about setting up a better home learning environment for your child.

Parents and caregivers also have the opportunity to learn online with Tulane School of Professional Advancement. Our flexible programs allow those balancing work and family life to go back to school on their own terms. Request more information about our undergraduate and graduate programs today.