Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, this school year has presented families with several different learning options as school districts and college campuses try to navigate the safest way to educate students either at home or in the classroom. Some schools have opted to start the fall in a virtual setting for the first few weeks, while others are choosing virtual learning as the default method until further notice. If your child is not accustomed to at-home learning, it could be an adjustment the first couple of weeks. It is important that you, as a parent, create a strong environment for study time to avoid distraction from schoolwork. Here are 7 strategies to implement in your home this coming school year to keep your child on track through their first e-learning semester.
1. Identify & remove distractions in the study space
Create a spot for your child to work in. Set up their own desk or clear a spot at the kitchen table. It should be free of clutter and out of sight of the of the TV.
2. Start the day with a nutrient dense breakfast.
Make sure that even though they are not heading to a physical school building, your child is still fueling his/her body with adequate nutritious foods. Breakfast should consist of some type of protein to keep them focused for the morning.
3. Prioritize rest & relaxation
Just as they should be getting a good breakfast, your child should also be resting each night on a schedule like they were to be going to school each day. Keep them on a regular sleep and wake routine. This will encourage focus during the day and prevent moodiness from being tired.
4. Set goals for the week & track daily activities.
Set benchmarks for your child to reach as they go through their curriculum. This will help you as their teacher determine whether they are grasping the content or if you need to make adjustments to how the information is being presented to them.
5. Get outside & soak up Vitamin D & sunlight.
When the weather allows for it, try to find activities for your child to do outside. This helps them to gain Vitamin D exposure, important for bone growth and the immune system. Encourage play and exercise as well for physical activity benefits.
6. Schedule stretching and/or meditation time during break times.
Teach your child the benefits of quieting the mind early. When a concept becomes difficult and they express frustration or stress, encourage your child to take a break for stretching, deep breathing and maybe some light meditating. Take the time away from the problem and then let them come back to it with a clear mind.
7. Identify the most productive time of the day & take advantage of it.
Learn when your child is at his or her best state of productivity. This might be after a meal, mid-morning, etc. It will take a few days to figure out, but once you do, you will be able to accomplish the more difficult tasks during this time with less effort.
If you are concerned about how to implement these strategies for your child or how to make this year successful, I strongly encourage you to seek the expertise of an experienced Integrative and Functional Medicine Practitioner.
Dr. Catherine Oseni offers a functional & integrative medicine approach with evidence-based strategies for children dealing with ADD/ADHD, Autism, mental health & much more. Alpha Care Wellness Center carries children’s nutraceuticals targeted for focus and better learning.
Call 817-550-6332 to schedule a Children’s Consultation with Dr. Catherine today.
