Primary eNews – August 21, 2020

Distance Learning…. Routines and Learning Spaces at Home

By Jackie Wyncoll, Student Support

Distance Learning- ugh!  So hard…but, here we are, so let’s get the best out of your child. Even though you are at home, it is important for children to establish ‘school’ routines and build good work habits that support learning. You can help support your child’s focus and productivity in the following ways:

Routines

• Visible schedule– Use a corkboard, whiteboard, window, or paper print-out to display the schedule for the week.
• Consistent wake-up times- get a bedside clock alarm and set it with enough time to allow your child to eat breakfast, wash up and dress appropriately before the first video call.
• Times for Work, Times for a Break– Children have limited attention spans- how long… try doubling your child’s age: 7 year olds=14 mins, 10 year olds= 20mins, 16 year olds= 32 mins before they will need a break. To increase engagement, alternate work times with movement breaks- younger children get active outside or try GoNoodle. Older students can also consider Pomodoro Technique:

1. Set a timer for 25 minutes, and start your task. It doesn’t have to be a tomato timer—Use your phone or this online version.
2. If a distraction pops into your head, write it down on a piece of paper and return to your task.
3. When the buzzer rings, put a checkmark on your paper. You’ve completed one increment, also known as a pomodoro.
4. Take a five-minute break. You can check the distractions that popped into your head, stretch, grab a cup of tea, etc.
5. After four pomodoros, take a thirty-minute break.
6. Repeat!

• Make a checklist for the daily tasks at the start of the day, or the start of an activity- write keywords for each of these required activities: watch, read, write. Check off each task as it is completed, and allow some positive reinforcement when finished. (use a window, whiteboard, notebook, GoogleKeep).
• Flexible Schedule-Consider: when is your child most alert and focused for challenging tasks? Is your child highly engaged or frustrated with a particular activity? Adjust accordingly for longer or shorter work times.
• Regular and age-appropriate bedtime– establish a bedtime routine at a consistent time, preferably with books instead of devices for a better night’s sleep.

Work Space

• Desk– positioned so that you are able to see their screen.
• Comfortable seating- cushioned and with sides for a restless learner.
• Shelf– to store workbooks and folders, as well as resource materials.
• Organizers for materials– keep the desk area as clutter-free as possible and support good organizational habits.
• Block off distractions– away from the TV, wall posters, toys conversation areas.
• Plenty of Light – natural light if possible to boost well being, energy and performance.
• Use wall space for a corkboard or whiteboard to hang up a calendar, write notes, make a checklist.

Primary Counseling

Grounding and what makes us YOU-nique 

You might have noticed that during this time of uncertainty, young children, teens, and adults are having difficulty with self-regulation. For the first few weeks of school, I have shared activities to help students with grounding. These activities might include tapping into their senses, trying breathing techniques, or painting a calming rock. The idea behind these activities is to teach children some tools to stop and take a moment when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. 

To connect to current PYP units, I am also creating simple tasks where students reflect on what makes them unique. Sometimes children hear more than we realize. Current events that are beyond their control can cause stress. I love that the school year is starting with a celebration of what makes each child special. When you notice your child is struggling, coming back to their activities celebrating uniqueness and identity can give them a little boost.

These activities are meant to reduce stress. If you find that I am sharing a technique that you do not have time to try, make note of it and try it later. I have no doubt that the teachers will tap into these ideas as the year progresses. We are all doing the best we can as teachers and parents. Try to be gentle with yourself as you support your little ones at home. 

Take care,

Sharon Gibbons

Indonesia Independence Day Homeroom Photo Competition

Congratulations to the Preschool as the winner of the Indonesia Independence Day Homeroom Photo Competition in the Primary School!

These are the other homeroom pictures:

Grade 2

 

Grade 3

 

Grade 4

Thank you for your participation and we are looking forward to having another competition in the future!

by Indonesian Teachers