Category: Education

After years of having the kids at home, it can be daunting to send them off for in-person learning. But there are many advantages to getting your kids back into the classroom. Whether you’ve been home-schooling this whole time or you you kept the kids at home due to the pandemic, we have some tips to help you readjust.

It’s Okay To Allow Your Kid To Return to School

While there are perks to online learning, like the flexibility to take classes and exams on your schedule and the ability to access all lecture notes and study guides through online portals, there are some things your kids miss when they don’t leave the house.

One of the biggest benefits of in-person learning for a growing child is the chance to interact with other students they’d never meet at home. It’s the only way they can build new relationships that could blossom as time goes on. The ability to talk with others and make friends is an incredible experience you can’t replicate at home.

Another benefit of attending in-person school is that children can also have more structure than they might have at home. That’s because they need to be in the same place at the same time every day, so they learn about expectations and they develop a sense of responsibility. Plus, even though you’re doing your best as a parent, your child can still get distracted at home by things like the television and their siblings. In a physical classroom, they may be able to focus more easily.

Finally, kids can get hands-on experience in classrooms and labs that they can’t get at home. Sometimes, touching and seeing things in real time can help your child to absorb the information.

Mentally Prepare For A Return to School

There’s also a mental health aspect to the argument of online versus in-person education, and parents need to be aware of the red flags of each situation.

The opportunity that kids get to learn in person with other students is incredibly beneficial because they avoid social isolation, which can contribute to anxiety. While it’s okay for kids to spend time at home, if it goes on for years, and they don’t meet new people, then they can become lonely. Those feelings can turn into anxiety and depression which can feed into social anxiety.

In-person learning can also be a challenge for some children, which is why it’s important to educate them about the potential for bullying and peer pressure. Teach them how to cope with or avoid these stressful situations. Teach them to talk to a teacher or come home and report to you if they’re bullied mentally or physically. Also, speak to them about peer pressure, present some hypothetical situations, and tell them how they can react to each.

Finally, teach them about the dangers of social media and how classmates may try to reach out on Facebook or Instagram and say unkind things. You can prevent negative situations by monitoring their web usage and enacting parental controls so they can’t be pressured to dangerous websites.

Preparing for In-Person Back-To-School

Once you’ve told your kids what to expect when they return to in-person learning and everyone’s on board, you need to choose the right school. Look at local schools and contact the administrators to learn more about the establishment and ask your questions, like how many students are in a class and the type of subject matter they teach. If you really want to know what your kids will experience daily, then ask if you can sit in and observe a class.

If you borrowed or rented electronics from an online school or an electronics store, then you’ll want to return computers, books, and whatever else you may have. Kids tend to put stickers and decorations on their belongings; if that’s the case, you’ll need to remove them. You can remove stickers from hard surfaces like a laptop with products you probably already have at home, like toothpaste. Do the following:

1. Apply a small amount to the sticker.
2. Rub it with a cloth.
3. Wait 10 minutes.
4. Scrape off the sticker with a razor.

You may also be able to follow the same steps with petroleum jelly.

The next step is to talk to your doctor and the school administrators about back-to-school vaccinations. In addition to the COVID-19 vaccination, they may also ask your child to get the flu vaccine and take other steps to ensure the safety and health of the other students. You’ll also want to ensure your kids have safe transportation to and from school.You may opt to drive your child to school and drop them off,  have them take a school bus, or arrange for carpooling with the other children.

If you’re apprehensive about bringing your kid back to a physical school then remember that the experience could do wonders for your child. Prepare them mentally and physically for the upcoming change, and they will thrive in the classroom.

About the Author
Katie Brenneman is a passionate writer specializing in education, mental health, family lifestyle and online safety. When she isn’t writing, you can find her with her nose buried in a book or hiking with her dog, Charlie. You can follow her on Twitter.

Parents are increasingly turning to tutoring to enhance their children’s academic journey and ensure they receive a quality education. With the assistance of a seasoned tutor, students gain a competitive edge and excel academically. Tutors do more than provide individualized instruction to enrich educational development, they also help with organization and study skills.

Tutors also take the pressure off parents to continually persuade their kids to focus on their studies. If you are contemplating the idea of hiring a tutor for your child’s learning needs, we’re provided this guide to explore why it can be a wise and beneficial decision.

Providing one-on-one support for your child

Every child possesses unique learning styles and individual needs.  This requires additional academic support beyond their regular classroom environment. If you’re in need of affordable JC math tuition, do some online research to find the right teacher for your child. Identifying the ideal tutor who matches their educational needs will ensure the make the most of the one-on-one attention your child will, tailored specifically for them.

Tutors are well-equipped to provide assistance across various subjects, including math, science, reading, and writing. They create a conducive space where your child can freely ask questions, practice their skills, and reinforce their understanding in a relaxed atmosphere.  By engaging in personalized instruction, your child gains confidence in their abilities and learns how to draw on their strengths and overcome their weaknesses.  All things combined lays a solid foundation for their academic success.

Answering any questions your child has

As a parent, you want to ensure that your child is getting the academic support necessary to succeed. That’s why tutors are often called upon to answer any questions students may have outside of the classroom. With one-on-one attention, your child can receive immediate feedback and clarification on areas that may be confusing.

Plus, tutors can provide additional resources and examples to help reinforce understanding. The best part is that tutors can do all of this in a timely manner, allowing your child to stay on track and confident in their abilities. With a tutor, your child can overcome challenges and achieve their academic goals.

Helping your child stay motivated and organized

Does your child struggle with staying on top of their assignments or lack motivation when it comes to studying? A tutor may be just what they need to get back on track. Tutors provide focused attention to identify areas of difficulty your child may be encountering. They work to develop a plan to improve.

Furthermore, tutors can also provide strategies for organization and time management to help your child stay on top of assignments and feel confident in their ability to succeed. With the help of a tutor, your child can stay motivated and focused on their studies, leading to academic success and a positive attitude toward learning.

Providing feedback to parents

Sometimes, it can be difficult to decipher what areas they’re doing well in and where they could use extra help. That’s where tutors come in. With their expertise, tutors can provide valuable feedback on your child’s performance and pinpoint areas they need more work on.

Additionally, tutors collaborate with your child to enhance their proficiency in challenging areas, nurturing their skills and knowledge. With the support of a tutor, you can provide your child with the guidance needed to excel academically, ensuring they stay on the path to success.

Finding a tutor for your child is an excellent decision that can help them excel in their studies and reach their educational goals. Tutors can provide a customized approach to learning that meets the specific needs of your child. This one-on-one focus helps make sure any questions are answered quickly and accurately, providing your child with more confidence in their academic abilities.

With the added support of a tutor, your child will have better organization skills, more motivation to learn and gain an improved understanding of the material. Ultimately, hiring a tutor will empower your child to reach new heights in academic performance without feeling the pressure to compete with other students in a classroom setting.  Any additional attention given by parents when helping their kids with homework is a bonus for your child’s success.

Picking the right school for your child is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. From public schools to private institutions, choosing where to send your child greatly impacts their learning potential and opportunities for personal growth. You want them to get the best education possible while also feeling comfortable in their environment.

It’s important to also consider how the chosen school will fit with your family’s values and beliefs. With so many factors to consider when selecting a school, narrowing down your options can be daunting—but we’re here to help make this process easier!

In this blog post, we’ll discuss all of the various aspects you should contemplate when picking out an educational institution for your child.

Identify the key areas of importance for you and your child

Choosing the right school for your child can be overwhelming with so many different options out there, but identifying key areas of importance can help narrow down your choices. Of course, one primary factor is the school’s academic program and curriculum. You want to ensure that the school’s approach to education aligns with your views.  If you wish your child to attend a British international school, research the school’s culture of learning and expectations that play a crucial role in your child’s development.

Take time to understand their overall mission to determine if it’s a good fit for your family. Lastly, don’t forget to involve your child in the decision-making process. Their thoughts and opinions matter and can provide valuable insight into what school would be the best fit for them. By considering these key areas, you can make an informed decision and set your child up for success in their academic journey.

Consider the location, size, and structure of the school

When considering the right school for your child, take into account the location, size, and structure of the institution. Every child’s comfort zone is different when it comes to how large or how intimate their surroundings are.  Is it close enough to home for easy transport and a convenient routine? Beyond proximity, the learning atmosphere and social activities provided by the school should be appropriately balanced to cater to your child’s specific needs and interests.

If your child prefers smaller classrooms, a large school may not be the best choice. Observe the classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and how close they are to each other.  Pay attention to the cleanliness, organization, and availability of resources. A safe, well-maintained, and stimulating environment can significantly enhance your child’s learning experience. Ultimately, finding the right school takes some time and effort, but the benefits of a well-suited learning environment for your child can make all the difference in their academic growth.

Research the curriculum offered at each school

Every school has its unique approach to education.  Their academic philosophy may not align with your child’s learning style and interests.  Some schools may focus on traditional teaching methods, while others emphasize project-based learning or technology integration. Additionally, the school you are researching may offer specialized programs such as language immersion or music education.  Is there a balance between crucial core subjects and those that spark a child’s creativity and imagination.  Whenever possible, speaking to individual teachers and ask them about their teaching style.

Research the school’s approach to involving parents in their child’s learning journey, such as parent-teacher associations, regular progress reports, and open communication channels. A school that values and encourages parental involvement can foster a collaborative and supportive educational environment.

Learn about extracurricular activities available

A school with a strong academic focus but limited extracurricular options may not be the best fit for a student who loves sports or the performing arts.  Look beyond academics and inquire about the activities and special programs offered. Consider your child’s interests.  Extracurricular activities are a vital aspect of a child’s upbringing, as they not only provide a fun and interactive way to spend their free time but also help them to develop important life skills.

If you are wondering about the variety of activities that your child can explore outside of school hours, there is a whole world of possibilities waiting for them.  From joining sports teams to participating in clubs and societies, there are plenty of activities catered to different interests and age groups. Perhaps your child is passionate about music or drama, or maybe they want to hone their leadership skills through participating in a youth group.

Although there is no perfect or one-size-fits-all school, commit to staying informed on current educational trends, as well as on the practices and policies of each school. This will help ensure that you make the best possible decision for your child’s education. Also, it is essential to take into consideration your child’s personal interests and preferences when selecting a school; it should be a place where they can be safe, feel comfortable, and grow in their learning experience.

Additional Resources for finding a school that suits your child:

Looking for a school in the United States?  Consider these online destinations for evaluating educational institutions.

During the early years of a child’s life, their brain is highly receptive to learning languages, making it an ideal time to introduce them to new languages. Integrating language learning into early education can have significant benefits, enhancing a child’s overall educational experience and preparing them for a globalized world.

Language acquisition is a fundamental skill that lays the foundation for a child’s cognitive and social development. In this article, we will explore the best practices for educators and parents to effectively integrate language learning into early education.

Start Early: The Critical Period for Language Acquisition

Research suggests that the earlier children are exposed to a new language, the easier it is for them to acquire it. The first few years of a child’s life are considered a critical period for language acquisition, as their brains are highly adaptable and can absorb linguistic patterns effortlessly. By introducing language learning at an early age, educators and parents can tap into this incredible capacity and facilitate effective language acquisition.

Create a Multilingual Environment

To maximize language learning outcomes, it is vital to establish a multilingual environment both at home and in the classroom. By surrounding children with the target language, educators and parents can create a rich linguistic context that facilitates natural language acquisition. Here are some effective strategies to foster a multilingual environment:

Speak the language at home: Parents play a crucial role in language acquisition, and speaking the target language consistently at home helps children become familiar with its sounds, vocabulary, and sentence structures. This constant exposure builds a strong foundation for language learning.

Expose children to culturally diverse materials: introducing children to a wide range of culturally diverse materials, such as books, music, and videos, not only enhances their language skills but also promotes cross-cultural understanding. These materials provide authentic language input and expose children to different perspectives and traditions.

Encourage interaction with native speakers: Interacting with native speakers of the target language provides children with real-life opportunities to practice and reinforce their language skills. Parents can seek out language exchange programs, language playgroups, or community events where children can engage in conversations with native speakers.

Incorporate the target language into daily routines: Educators can infuse the target language into daily activities and routines, creating a seamless integration of language learning. This can include using the language during circle time, mealtime, or outdoor play. Consistent exposure to the language in various contexts reinforces vocabulary and helps children develop fluency.

Provide bilingual resources: Offering bilingual resources such as books, flashcards, and educational materials supports language learning by providing visual aids and reinforcing vocabulary acquisition. These resources can be used during independent reading time, small group activities, or as supplementary materials for parents to use at home.

Organize language-based events: Educators can organize language-based events, such as cultural festivals or language immersion days, to celebrate the target language and encourage active participation. These events provide an immersive experience where children can engage with the language in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

By implementing these strategies, educators and parents can create a multilingual environment that nurtures language learning and helps children develop proficiency in the target language. Consistent exposure, authentic materials, and opportunities for interaction contribute to a well-rounded language learning experience, fostering both linguistic and cultural competence in young learners.

Language Learning Applications for Parents: Enhancing Early Education

Language learning applications can be valuable tools for parents seeking to integrate language learning into their children’s early education. These apps provide interactive and engaging platforms that allow parents to actively participate in their children’s language learning journey. Here are three notable language learning apps that parents can use:

Duolingo Kids

Duolingo Kids is an extension of the popular language learning app, Duolingo, specifically designed for young learners. With its colorful characters and interactive activities, this app offers a playful learning environment. Parents can explore various languages with their children, such as Spanish, French, and German, through interactive exercises, vocabulary games, and simple conversations. Duolingo Kids utilizes gamification elements to motivate children and provides a fun way for parents to engage in language learning activities with their kids.

Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Word Builder

Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Word Builder focuses on vocabulary development and word recognition. This app offers a range of captivating games and challenges for children to learn and practice vocabulary in multiple languages. Through visual cues and audio prompts, parents can help their children enhance their comprehension and pronunciation skills. Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Word Builder provides an interactive interface that keeps children engaged and allows parents to actively participate in their child’s language learning process.

Promova

Promova is an innovative language learning app that prioritizes immersive language experiences. With Promova, parents can engage their children in interactive language lessons that incorporate real-life scenarios and conversations. The app offers a variety of engaging activities, including role-playing exercises and interactive dialogues. Promova stands out by utilizing cutting-edge speech recognition technology, providing instant feedback and pronunciation evaluation. Parents can use Promova to create immersive language learning experiences and actively support their children’s language acquisition.

By utilizing these language learning apps, parents can actively contribute to their children’s language development outside of the classroom. Duolingo Kids, Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Word Builder, and Promova provide engaging interfaces, interactive activities, and a wide range of language options. These apps enable parents to actively participate in language learning activities, creating enjoyable and effective learning experiences for their children. Through these language learning apps, parents can strengthen their child’s language skills, expand their vocabulary, and foster a lifelong passion for language learning.

Play-Based Learning

Play-based learning is an effective approach to language acquisition, as it taps into children’s natural curiosity and desire for exploration. By integrating language learning into playtime, educators and parents can create a stimulating environment where children develop language skills while enjoying themselves. Here are some examples of how play-based learning can be utilized for language acquisition:

Puppet shows and storytelling: Using puppets as storytelling props, educators and parents can create imaginative scenarios where children can practice dialogue and vocabulary in a playful context. They can encourage children to create their own stories or retell familiar tales, incorporating the target language. This interactive and creative activity enhances language production and fosters storytelling skills.

Language-themed board games: Board games designed specifically for language learning can be a valuable resource. These games incorporate vocabulary, sentence structure, and comprehension activities. For instance, a game could involve matching pictures with corresponding words or constructing sentences using given vocabulary. This interactive play helps children internalize language patterns and promotes vocabulary retention.

Role-playing and pretend play: Role-playing scenarios allow children to act out different roles and engage in conversations using the target language. For example, they can pretend to be shopkeepers, customers, or doctors, practicing greetings, negotiations, and basic language functions. Through pretend play, children immerse themselves in language-rich environments, enhancing their speaking and listening skills.

Language-themed arts and crafts: Arts and crafts activities provide opportunities for children to engage with language while being creative. They can create collages with labeled objects, make flashcards or vocabulary cards, or design posters illustrating specific themes. This hands-on approach reinforces vocabulary learning and encourages children to use the target language to describe their creations.

Sing-alongs and music-based activities: Music is a powerful tool for language acquisition. Singing songs, rhymes, and chants in the target language engages children’s auditory senses and helps them internalize vocabulary and pronunciation. Educators and parents can incorporate gestures and actions into the songs to further reinforce language comprehension. Additionally, creating simple musical instruments or participating in rhythm-based activities enhances fine motor skills while reinforcing language learning.

Language-themed sensory play: Sensory play activities stimulate multiple senses and facilitate language acquisition. For example, educators and parents can set up a sensory bin with objects related to a particular theme, such as animals or food. Children can explore the objects, name them in the target language, and describe their characteristics. This hands-on approach fosters vocabulary development and sensory integration.

By incorporating play-based learning into language acquisition, educators and parents can create a dynamic and engaging language learning environment. The examples mentioned above demonstrate how play can be utilized to introduce vocabulary, practice dialogues, encourage conversations, and reinforce language skills. Through playful interactions, children become active participants in their language learning journey, building confidence and enjoyment along the way.

Use Visual and Contextual Support

Young learners greatly benefit from visual and contextual support when learning a new language. Providing visual aids, such as flashcards, posters, and picture books, helps children associate words with their corresponding objects or concepts. Using gestures, facial expressions, and body language can also enhance understanding and make language learning more accessible. Additionally, creating meaningful contexts for language use, such as through storytelling or role-playing, helps children grasp the language’s purpose and reinforces their comprehension.

Consistency and Repetition

Consistency and repetition are keys to language learning success. It is important to establish a regular language learning routine both at home and in the classroom. Consistent exposure to the target language reinforces vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, helping children internalize the language more effectively. Repetition of language activities, songs, and chants solidifies learning and aids in memory retention. By maintaining a consistent and structured language learning environment, educators and parents provide a strong foundation for language acquisition.

Individualize Learning Experiences

Every child is unique, and language learning should be tailored to meet individual needs and abilities. Educators and parents should consider children’s learning styles, interests, and strengths when designing language lessons and activities. Some children may be more visual learners, some may enjoy writing, while others may excel in auditory or kinesthetic approaches. Adapting teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles ensures that children can engage with the language in ways that suit them best, maximizing their learning potential.

Conclusion

Integrating language learning into early education is a powerful way to equip children with invaluable skills for their future. By starting early, creating a multilingual environment, incorporating play-based learning, utilizing visual and contextual support, leveraging technology, emphasizing communication and interaction, promoting cultural awareness, ensuring consistency and repetition, individualizing learning experiences, and fostering a positive learning environment, educators and parents can lay a solid foundation for children’s language acquisition journey.

By implementing these best practices, children not only develop language proficiency but also enhance their cognitive abilities, cultural understanding, and social skills. Language learning becomes an exciting and enriching experience, opening doors to new opportunities and preparing children for a globalized world. With the right support and guidance, young learners can embark on a lifelong journey of language exploration, embracing diversity, and becoming effective communicators in an increasingly interconnected society.