Weekly Series — Behavior Made Easy
“Mom, can you help me with my math assignment?, It is due tomorrow. Oh’ and I forgot about the project I needed to do for Science, can you help me with that too?”, “Susie, I’m on a conference call right now, can you schedule something in my appointment book for later, ”. “Actually, schedule something with your father, I think he has an opening this afternoon.”
Most parents during this time of pandemic are already feeling the pressure of managing multiple priorities. And adding the role of “teacher’ is enough to push them over the edge.
As a Special Education Teacher, this is the message we sent to our families this week: Spending time together to — bake cookies, play a game, learn to ride a bike, draw a picture, play dress up, build something, have a conversation, laugh — → Priceless, invaluable, irreplaceable time!!!!
But as families are required to meet certain school expectations, here are some steps that can help ease the stress.
1.Think of yourself as a coach instead of a teacher.
Coaches guide someone on their road to success. The learner is ultimately responsible for doing the work, but the coach sets up an environment to be successful. The coach is there to support and help navigate the learning experience.
2. Set up an initial meeting with your child to outline the following items together
a. Roles and responsibilities
b. The weekly work schedule
c. Office hours — scheduled check in times
d. Additional resources or materials they will need
e. A system to manage assignments
f. Areas where additional support is needed
g. A celebration routine
2. Physical Space
Everyone benefits from a home base to study. Even if working in multiple locations is the preference, having a home base helps with planning and organization.
3. Celebrate.
Find a time to celebrate the day’s efforts. Don’t’ worry about “accomplishments” or finished assignments, just celebrate getting through another day. Remember, tomorrow starts all over again.
I hope this was helpful. All your comments and input are greatly appreciated. Don’t forget to follow us on Mediumand join our newsletter at daVinci Publishing
