Overcoming the challenges of blended learning

Many families are facing the challenge of adapting to blended learning brought about by the pandemic. Aside from working from home and doing household chores, parents are now guiding their children and making sure they study and learn from their online classes.

Since blended learning is relatively new to many, it may take some time, patience, and hard work before families can adjust to this form of education. Here are a few tips to help your children with their emotional and educational needs and adapt to this new way of schooling.

Provide a space for learning

The first step is to provide your kids with their own distraction-free space for learning. Make sure the space is conducive for studying and is free from external noise and potential interruptions in the household. To make school time more interesting and exciting, personalize the space with child-appropriate organizers, visual calendars, and educational charts.

Craft a consistent routine

Consistent daily routine is important in simulating the school environment at home. Start the kids early in the morning with a shower, then a complete breakfast. Properly schedule school time, break time, and playtime throughout the day. This way, they’ll be more focused on the tasks at hand. Also, make sure they are tucked in early so they have enough energy for the next school day. By sticking to a routine, it’s easier for them to adjust to the new school set-up.

Teach them to become independent

Parents are the first teachers of their children not only in academics but also in life. However, teaching them doesn’t mean spoon-feeding them the answers to their homework. Let them do their own work and just be there when they’re having a hard time. This way, they develop independence, which can also help boost their confidence.

Balance the use of gadgets

Tablets and computers are good tools for learning. You can search for additional information online or discover new things together. These same gadgets can also be used for entertainment -- they can stream their favorite videos or play games while taking a break from schoolwork. As a parent, it’s important for you to teach them to use these gadgets responsibly and make sure they utilize these not just for leisure but also for learning.

Make time for break time

Break times are important for kids’ mental and physical health, as well as their overall well-being. Use break times to talk to them, motivate them when they feel frustrated, and acknowledge them for a job well done.

Give them snacks to recharge and energize them. Remind them about proper hygiene by washing their hands before eating their snacks. Remember that even though they are at home, they can still pick up germs and get sick.

To further help Filipino families adjust to remote learning in the new normal, food company Rebisco’s #RebiSchoolOfTips provides practical tips on how the family can adapt to blended learning. Their animated video tutorials and social media followers are good sources of ideas and insights for parents and students struggling to keep up with the new school normal.

While we’re all busy working from home and maintaining the household at the same time, consider blended learning as a good opportunity to really bond with your kids and to hone them through your presence and proper guidance. The adjustment period may be challenging at first, but to see your kids become better individuals under your supervision will surely make all the sacrifices worth it.

For more #RebiSchoolTips on blended learning, subscribe to Rebisco’s Snackademy YouTube channel or visit their Snackademy Facebook page.