During uncertain times, many parents and caregivers are looking for information on how best to support their children with learning while physically away from school. It’s important to remember that it's quite normal for any child to display some behaviours that might seem “out of character” when there are changes to their everyday world: they may seem more concerned, more withdrawn, or act out in ways that you would not expect. Understanding that this may be your child’s stress response showing as ‘fight or flight’ is important, because it is normal.
These resources may be of help:
Supporting My Child's Learning
Things to Remember
- learning doesn't only happen through worksheets - talk with your kids about 'big ideas' or 'questions of the day' - focussing on oral communication while learning at home is just as important for brain development
- everyday activities can be opportunities to learn at home (e.g. cooking, calculating distance during a walk in the community, writing/fine motor activities with sidewalk chalk, writing a text/letter/e-mail to a loved one)
Setting Up a Home Work Environment
- physical environment: Careful consideration for location for work space. Check: is it free of distractions? Is there access to necessary materials? (i.e. plug for computer/adequate lighting)
- create a learning space where the child knows this is where they are to be for a set period of time or for set activities
- look at pictures of simple workstations/systems as samples
- focus on the positives and praise/celebrate even the smallest successes
- consider: is my learner able to complete these tasks independently? If not, what are some strategies they can use until an adult is available for support? (i.e. write questions on a post-it note, use free online tutoring support like TVO mathify, or ask a friend or family member)
Importance of Routine and Structure
- use a timer and visuals as much as you can - they don't need to be fancy
- chunk the time - use a task/break routine - set realistic expectations for yourself and your child - start slow and gradually increase the time
- Low tech options to create schedules:
- whiteboard with a to-do list
- post-it notes
- a basket / pile of "to-do", that can be placed in a finished basket / pile when completed
Children with Special Needs
Life can be uncertain at times, and it makes sense that during uncertain times, parents and caregivers look for information specific to their child with special needs. It’s important to remember, despite the nature of your child’s special needs, it’s quite normal for any child to display some behaviours that might seem “out of character” when there are changes to their everyday world: they may seem more concerned, more withdrawn, or act out in ways that you would not expect. Understanding that this may be your child’s stress response showing as ‘fight or flight’ is important, because it is normal.
Finding creative ways to give your child opportunities for safe social contact is important. These resources may be of help:
Talking with children about changes around them can be assisted via social stories and narratives, as which can be found on:
- Kerry's Place Autism Services
A sense of routine also is important!
Setting up routines and schedules:
Additional links to help your child with Special Needs at Home
- The Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario, Helping Students with Learning Disabilities Keep their Skills Up (LD@home)
