Tips for Students in the Age of Hybrid Learning

Back in 2020 when the world stayed home, we were extremely unprepared for many of the necessary changes; helping our kids attend school remotely was a big one. Kids had never joined their teachers and classmates for online learning before and for some, it was tough.

Finding adequate internet access, adjusting to a teacher’s style of online instruction and having to ask parents, rather than teachers, for help were just a few of the challenges that kids encountered. Now, as online and hybrid learning have become the norm for some schools scattered across the country, here are some tips to make sure your child is successful when learning at home.

1. A dedicated learning space. Whether it’s the bedroom, the kitchen or an office, make sure you have a good internet connection and all the supplies needed for your child to be a successful student, like a calendar to mark deadlines and write out a to-do list. Also, make sure the space is free from distractions like TV and gaming systems, and silence or remove cellphones and tablets from the space during school hours.
2. Create a schedule and stick to it. Routines keep us—and kids—organized, help to manage expectations, and make us feel more in control. This can boost your child’s self-confidence and improve their mental health. Don’t forget to build in breaks for snacks and meals, or for taking a walk or bike ride.
3. Take it seriously. Don’t assume that online learning is easier than in-person. In fact, for some, particularly children with attention difficulties, it may be more challenging. Remind your kids of the expectations for behavior, attendance, and academics, and help them keep themselves accountable by frequently checking in with them and making sure they remain on task. Small rewards and incentives can go a long way in helping kids remain engaged during online learning.
4. Get out of your comfort zone. Online learning may be an opportunity for your child to grow personally as well as academically. Maybe they’re shy and don’t feel comfortable raising their hand during a video call or reaching out to their teacher for help. Have them challenge themselves to take these steps so they don’t fall behind and to help them grow socially and emotionally, as well as academically.
5. Start with the most difficult assignments. Kids and adults are usually more focused in the morning, which makes this a great time of day to work on bigger projects individually or together. Save easier assignments for later in the day when they may be more easily distracted or mentally fatigued.
6. Embrace technology. We may joke that our children’s generation was born knowing how to use technology, but online learning may require that your kids, and you, learn new applications. Despite the best technology, remind them that glitches happen and devices crash. These experiences, despite their frustrating nature, are also opportunities to help kids practice emotion regulation skills