Parent/Guardian Support 

Establish routines and expectations 

Parents need to establish routines and expectations from day one of online learning. Parents are encouraged to set regular hours for their student’s schoolwork including a normal bedtime and wake up time. It is important that parents set these expectations as soon as online learning begins. 

Define the physical space for your student’s school work 

Your student may have a regular place for doing homework under normal circumstances, but this space may or may not be suitable for an extended period of time. We encourage families to establish a space/location where their student will learn most of the time. This should be a public/family space, not in a child’s bedroom. 

Begin and end each day with a check-in 

Parents are encouraged to start and finish each day with a simple check-in. In the morning, ask what is your child learning today? What are their learning goals? How will they spend their time? What resources do they require? What support do they need? Older students may not want to have these check-ins with parents, but they should nevertheless. Parents should establish these check-ins as regular parts of each day. 

Take an active role in helping your student 

Human beings learn best when they have opportunities to process their learning with others. Beyond the check-ins recommended at the start and end of each day, parents should regularly circle back and engage with their children about what they’re learning if possible. 

Establish times for quiet and reflection 

A huge challenge for families with multiple children will be how to manage all of their children’s needs, especially when those students vary in age. There may be times when siblings need to work in different rooms to avoid distractions. Parents may even experiment with noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions. 

Encourage physical activity and/or exercise 

Make sure your children remember to move and exercise. This is vitally important to their health, well-being, and learning. 

Maintain an appropriate level of decorum in your home 

Please remember that your student’s online learning opens a window into your home. Role model appropriate behavior while your student is engaged in a Zoom meeting with their teacher and peers. Please do not use profanity. Enforce the schedule and guidelines you’ve set up in order for your student to be a successful online learner