The end of the summer holidays and the return to school can be a strange transition for many students. After several weeks of no classes or homework, getting back into a routine involving bedtimes and studying can be tricky. But it doesn’t have to be.
There’s now plenty of technology that can help parents and children stay organised. By thinking independently and creatively, students can discover new approaches to problem-solving. And developing good habits at home can help boost their wellbeing when they’re at school. With all of this in mind, here are 3 tips for helping your child handle being back at school.
Use Technology to Get Organised
Every pupil finds some aspect of learning difficult. This could be staying focused when working, or forgetting to schedule time to complete homework. But they can use technology and apps to help them. They can stay on-track using productivity tools, and planners can help them remember upcoming deadlines.
These kinds of apps don’t take away responsibility from students. They help them to manage these better. As a parent, you can support your child in finding apps that are safe and well-suited to their needs.
Technology can help parents, as well. There are apps that can help you organise activities as a family, such as family planning and note-taking tools. You can use these to view contact information, exam results, teaching feedback and class schedules on the same screen.
Organising this information will help you and your children to feel more relaxed, and use your time wisely. You can use it to study and concentrate on improving any areas where they need more support.
Think Independently
Independent learning has benefits for learners, including better test results and readiness for life after school. But this isn’t always discussed in class. So, it’s useful for parents to encourage this well before their child finishes their final lesson. This will help them to take better control of their studying and to do well, whatever they pursue after secondary education.
To encourage independent learning, consider helping your child (or children) to think creatively in their approach to homework and other activities. Some pupils at online schools are routinely asked to come up with their own ideas. Depending on the project, they may decide to create posters, models or plays promoting an idea or theme.
By learning independently, all children can unlock skills and abilities they never knew they had. As parents, you can help them to realise their creative potential. Their homework and other school assignments will be all the better for this.
Promote Wellbeing
The first days back at school can be unnerving, especially for learners who will be taking exams. Settling into the routine of classes and homework after the summer holidays can take a little while to get used to. That’s why children need to know their wellbeing is just as important as their learning.
To help, parents can encourage developing good habits. If your child spends a lot of time using a screen, it helps to step away from this every once in a while. They should use this screen-free time to go outdoors, exercise, and enjoy their hobbies. All of this will help students reduce stress and improve their physical and mental health.
Getting a good night’s sleep is also valuable, particularly after children may have spent several weeks going to bed later than usual. Establishing a bedtime routine can be useful, and may involve some light reading or other similar activities.
You may also like to use this time to get ready for the next day, whether that involves preparing breakfast and lunch or getting your child’s school uniform and books ready.
Learning to Suit Your Lifestyle
As an online school, King’s InterHigh uses interactive learning and creative teaching to help students think outside the box. We provide students with a flexible timetable and plenty of opportunities to socialise, making it easy to schedule learning around their commitments and lifestyle. Learn more by visiting our website.
