Attn: Parents - Avoid the Remote Learning Burnout

As many parents are well into month two of kids at home and overseeing remote or distance learning, many are facing burnout. The count down to the end of the school year adds to that feeling of letting things slide vs. pushing through to end the year strong. As media already speculates the future of what was “normal” education before, it’s no wonder parents are feeling overwhelmed when thinking about what fall could bring. Many parents are just trying to power through this school year.

While burnout is natural, how can you avoid it as you continue to navigate “homeschooling” while also balancing everything else going on in life and our world right now? We know that so many parents aren’t ready to give up yet! Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Make a conscious effort to ask your child (AND YOURSELF!) how they are doing.

No one is used to this new way of learning! Even if you’re a veteran to remote learning or homeschooling, no one has had to navigate this challenge during a pandemic before. Take time each day to assess how both you and your child/children are doing emotionally. It remains vital to know what everyone is thinking and feeling before you can successfully tackle learning for the day!

2. Be empathetic and team up with teachers.

Teachers are working harder now than they ever have, and that’s saying something! Many teachers are parents themselves and know many are working from home while trying to supervise remote learning. Take time to look over the resources they have spent hours putting together and do what you can. When the inevitable slips and interruptions happen, teachers will understand and give grace! What’s important? Make sure you as a parent are doing the same. Practice empathy and remind yourself that your child’s teachers are doing everything they can to make sure students are taken care of during this unprecedented time.

3. Keep the excitement!

Work on cultivating your child’s interests so they continue to find learning fun and exciting! While it’s important to stay present with your child’s teacher and class as much as possible, play to your child’s strengths and interests. If they love cookies, work on measuring ingredients, reading a recipe together, and baking! If they love to be outside, do outdoor scavenger hunts for different types of plants or bugs. No matter what, it is just important to keep your child’s mind active and engaged.

4. Focus on what is most important.

As parents continue to juggle the new normal at home, in many cases, something has got to give. If you are feeling overwhelmed with distance learning obligations, take time to ask your child’s teacher what skills are essential. If the basis of the activities given is to get your young student writing or reading, take that and turn it into something your child enjoys to get to the root of the learning objectives. As stated above, finding unique ways to keep your child engaged by playing to their interests will always help!

During this time, above all, give everyone a little grace. Try your hardest, but know that we are all trying to navigate a new normal with new benchmarks, rules and regulations. If you’re still looking for additional resources for your classroom or for your own children at home, be sure to check out the free resources we are offering during this time!