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Communication and schedules key to remote learning success

Posted at 1:58 PM, Aug 14, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-14 18:57:50-04

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Remote learning can be overwhelming for parents.

But, having a schedule and good communication can help parents navigate what is a new world for many.

Heather MacDonald’s daughter is in fifth grade and knows how quickly online learning can become overwhelming.

"But I think being organized is, like, huge,” MacDonald, a director of education for the Sylvan Learning Center of Corpus Christi, says. “We sat down last night. Wrote out her zoom numbers and connected so it automatically connects for her, laid out the whole entire day for her, cell phone went up in the drawer for the whole day so there was no distraction. Last night we set limits on all devices, so they shut down at certain times."

Having a schedule in place, such as a specific time to get up in the morning, as well as a specific place to do schoolwork that is free from distractions is also essential for success.

Digital distractions such as televisions and extra devices should be turned off or removed from arms reach during live zoom sessions, Andrea Flores says, a director of education for the Sylvan Learning Center of Corpus Christi.

And for parents that are struggling with any aspect of remote learning, reach out to the teacher and explain the situation. Communication is key and teachers and school staff are there to work with families and provide resources, Flores says.

“It's one of those things where it's going to take some time for everybody to adjust,” Flores says. “I don't care if we did it in the spring, we're starting school over again and we don't know how long it's here to stay. So, I think if everyone just gives themselves time to breathe too and say, 'Hey, you know what we did this today let’s go back and try and come up with another game plan."

The Sylvan Learning Center provides both distance and in-person tutoring. For more information call 361-993-3793.