The psycho-social impact of online learning to youth: how parents can provide support

Dear Editor

The pandemic has brought an abundance of challenges along with it and that fact is not debatable. From worldwide chaos in the form of fear of the spread of the disease to the negative impacts on workplaces, sleep patterns and bank accounts, the coronavirus is the thing that many of us never thought would happen but came along and brought our worst, unknown fears to life. In response to the pandemic, the option of online learning was concocted as a valuable method to curb any issues relating to children and their schooling. Despite how you may feel about online learning, the system is the very best since it keeps you and your family safe, and makes certain that your children do not fall behind in their classes. The parents’ role is of paramount importance in this new process and while the schooling may be for your children, this is also an opportunity for you to learn new skills that can assist you even after the children have returned to school.

Two heads are better than one…

First, parents, be sure to change the way you refer to the process of learning. It should not be school work or any type of work since we already associate work with fatigue and low gains. Instead, alter your perspective by referring to it as more open-ended terms like class time, learning hour, brain power hour or something else that you made up that sounds more fun. After that is done, you now have a different perspective and will show interest in the class and the child. The children will notice the interest given and whether it is welcomed or not, they will always do their very best when they see their parents motivated and those around them motivated and happy about the lessons. We are social beings, and thus, the normal forms of socializing in the classroom is over for now, so while they are at home, make sure that you socialize and play, talk and learn along with them. Seek out activities in the home that will connect to the topics being taught. For example, if they are learning a new language, then label the items around the house in that new language and greet each family member using this new language as much as you can. This will show the child that the lessons are not just class work, but are applicable in real life. It will also show you the same and encourage further engagement.

Bond, Bond, Bond 

Children can get distracted easily and sitting, staring at a screen may be against the nature of all children, who are active by nature. Make sure you allot breaks for them from that screen and encourage them to be active even if you have to whip out your old running shoes and take a few laps with them around the house, or outside. Bonding is everything so bond, bond, bond. Be on the lookout for explicit of inappropriate content including cyber-bullying, scammers, grooming etc. Children may be oblivious to the dangers of the internet but as adults, some of us may see danger, even if we have little or no clue how to operate the internet.

Teamwork makes the dream work

Finally, be open to learn from your child. Give yourself mental space to understand that they are in a new era and some of the things they may know, you may not be good at. Use whatever time you have to brush up on your tech skills. Find videos on YouTube where you can learn new teach skills or elsewhere (ask friends or teachers) to help both you and your child get the best out of the teaching and learning experience at home. Make sure the furniture and surroundings are as comfortable as possible and don’t forget to be patient. Your child is as unhappy being stuck at home as you are so don’t forget to work together on this.

Yours respectfully,

Khadidja Ba

Communications Associate

ChildLinK Inc