We wanted to share a few tips we learned while experiencing our own adult “online learning” earlier this year.
ZOOM FATIGUE IS REAL!
As professionals who spend little time in front of a computer, we experienced first hand how difficult this adjustment can be.
Remember that your child, their eyes, their brain, and their body are adjusting to this new style of learning. If they are complaining, it is absolutely valid, and certain measures can be taken to ensure they are the most successful with this transition.
2. BREAKS ARE KEY
Be sure to provide your child with adequate breaks away from a screen to rest their eyes, move their body, and relax. Guide them towards breaks that are outdoors, screen free, and full of movement. Keep them hydrated, and full of healthy snacks & meals as well.
MOVEMENT BREAKS:
Animal walks: have your child “walk” around the house like various animals of their choice
Heavy work: Have your child carry a box of toys, laundry basket, or a backpack full of books to a new location to work
Red light, Green light
Simon Says
Blanket Roll: pull your child in a blanket, or roll them up and squish them
Offer choices: Giving choices of where they want to work
Be sure to remember to limit screen time before bed. This will help them get the best possible sleep for the next day of learning.
3. GET SOME HELPFUL TOOLS
Some bluelight blocking glasses can be helpful to protect your child’s eyes from the blue light of the computer/ipad screen. These can be found on amazon.
Offer various options for seating. Some examples include: a beanbag chair, a yoga ball or peanut shaped ball for more movement, or a supportive chair that keeps their feet flat on the ground, and their knees and hips at a 90 degree bend for optimal support.
Online videos or books for movement breaks, meditation, kid’s yoga, or other movement activities can be useful for short breaks in between lessons.
Remember to offer options when your child is having a hard time focusing. Alternative seating, breaks, and adequate nutrition and sleep will all help with this. Most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself or on them! This is an adjustment for us all, and we’re doing the best we can. Remind them of this, we’re all in this together, and here to support each other through this difficult time!
Please feel free to reach out to your SLP or OT for any specific recommendations to help your child be most successful during this online learning change!
Amy Kilby MA, CCC-SLP
Amy Williams OTR/L