DISCLAIMER :-) We're not here to make education policy or offer opinions, we're not teachers or educators or education staff - we help people buy and sell property.  We know that all this craziness will pass one day too, we're looking forward to it.

1. 100% Positive. The power of positive thinking is a powerful thing, but the power of positive words is can change lives. Yes, you're frustrated. You're having to sit and help your child learn and you're struggling with it all. Remember, your kid is too and they will amplify your positivity or negativity. So if you're bashing the system, they'll think they're set up for failure. But if you can only encourage them, only talk about how great they're doing, it lessons the burden on them in this season. So if you've got something negative on your tongue, leave it there - you should only speak positive words to, about, and around your child when it comes to virtual learning. Help them stay positive and you'll see them get as much out of this time as possible!
   
   
2. Don't Forget Recess. Your child needs at least 30 minutes of activity every day, most pediatricians recommend a full hour. It's why PE is so important, not only fun - kids get to "turn off" learning and then "work off" some pent-up energy. PARENTING TIP - Go for a walk with them, ride bikes with them, play their favorite sport. If those options aren't possible, find a kids workout video on YouTube and you'd be surprised how much fun your child will have. And you'll see them calmer in the afternoon and paying better attention.
   
   
3. Try A New Place. Some parents have moved their child's learning location around their home, trying to keep their kid's attention and keep the experience new. The dining room today, the den tomorrow, a side table the next day - those are all options we all probably have and can help create a new scene for the school day. Even the little bit of excitement about a new location can help with their learning and attitude!
   
   
4. Live By The Schedule. Just because the learning is happening at home doesn't mean your child should run free like a Summer day. Summer ended when school started and one of the best things you can do for your child is GET THEM IN A RHYTHM with school. Same starting time, same snack time, same lunch time. The simple schedule of starting the day at the same time will not only get their day going, it will actually help the time pass a little faster. It won't be as painful for you when you know the day before what to expect.
   
   
5. Make Lunch Fun. Lunch is always a great break in the day at school, not just to eat but to also socialize. Your child has been focusing for hours and they need fuel and a break to get them through the rest of the day. Make lunch fun by making each other's lunch (careful with the little ones) and then eat together somewhere you wouldn't normally - like the front porch or front steps. That new environment with some food makes for some great conversations, and be sure to take advantage of those moments. Tell them you're proud of them for getting through all this, praise them for having a great attitude. A sandwich and chips on the front porch topped with some praise from mom or dad can make a deep impact right now!
   
   
6. Give Them A Break. They're used to a break in the afternoon, after school - so give it to them. It's a great time for them to unwind after a day of learning, so keep that while they're at home. When the Chromebook closes in the afternoon, give them an hour or so to rest their brain. They're going through a tough time with all this too, giving them a break before starting homework can help them complete their tasks faster and better with a refreshed mindset.
   
   
7. Connect With The Teacher. They're also struggling with virtual learning. We've heard of teachers crying every day when they're done. Think about it, they're called to this vocation and they can't do what they love to do and are trained to do. They miss your kid as much as your kid misses learning and friends. And we've seen where parents who connect with the teacher - either with asking questions about assignments, or simply sending a kind email - has made a huge difference in that teacher's day. Think about it, the more you build up the teacher, the more confident they are getting through this, and the better they'll be instructing your child.
   
   

We hope this helps you, your child, and your family. These might seem simple but we've seen some parents swear by them and we wanted to share them with you. If they're helpful or you think other parents might get something out of this post, we just ask you kindly give this a share on Facebook.