Mourning loss of "typical in-person school experience:" Let's take the guilt out of it
* Remember that school socialization is not the same as last year
* Your kids are not missing out on the same social experience as school had in the past, as there are new social distance rules in place now
* realistic expectations: clear desk, less clutter
* setting alarms on Devices for specific log in times for specific school sessions
Logging in to Online classes:
* organized way to keep Zoom/Google classroom/Online learning passwords
* Whiteboard with password for kids who are reading
* Kids who are not readers yet: embed password in word document for children
* have a plan with children: what is backup plan if zoom or other link is not working?
* when are movement breaks built into online schedule?
* give your kids specific instructions for movement breaks when class schedule has breaks
NYT: How to protect children's eyes during remote learning
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/17/parenting/kids-eyesight-distance-learning-coronavirus.html
* Screen time rules for kids:
* 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away, for 20 seconds
* Keep devices at least 2 feet away and preferably at eye level OR below eye level to minimize eye strain
* do not skip vision screenings and regular vision testing
* if your child is struggling now, do NOT wait for IEP meeting, reach out to school now, document issues in emails
* do not be afraid to suggest a solution if you have one
* do not be afraid to call more IEP meetings if you need
* schools often short-staffed and schools and parents still figuring out what IEP looks like for remote learning
* streamlining homework assignments, technological decluttering:
* If multiple programs and apps utilized by school districts:
* Ask teachers to make a list of daily homework and what programs homework is due in:
* example: request DAILY WORK DUE TODAY LIST (and list each program work is due in)
* WORK DUE TODAY 1. turn in video on book cat in the hat (flipgrid) . 2. turn in math fraction homework (google classroom). etc.
Technology Adaptations if needed in IEP:
* consider Assistive Technology evaluation
* need someone at IEP program that is familiar with the technology
* do you need simple technology adaptations: perhaps a keyboard with the iPad?
* put all requests for evaluations in writing, emails etc. (No phone calls: phone calls do not count)
Typing and technology resources:
* dance mat typing (great program to teach kids typing).
https://toybox.tools.bbc.co.uk/activities/id/activity-dance-mat-typing/exitGameUrl/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.co.uk%2Fguides%2Fz3c6tfr
* voice dictation programs
* snap type pro app (converts worksheets to editable documents so can type instead of writing)
* some schools are not allowing children to turn off the camera
* ask schools for a copy of their online policy in writing
Fun video: as promised, ending with a fun video about cyber school from the ladies of "#IMOMSOHARD"
https://youtu.be/ETqrzcF_ef8
