The Panther Parent

As we continue to work out the kinks of transitioning to what has been titled, "Distance Learning," we are learning tips and tricks from one another as well as other schools on how to best support parents in the virtual learning environment. We understand you've been given a daunting task, but our Lake Staff is here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can make this new opportunity a great experience for all.

Your Role Now
Many of you are now working at home alongside your child(ren). Take a look at the list below that may provide ideas to set up both you and your child for success.

• Manage Your Expectations
• After three weeks of Distance Learning, you may just now be figuring out what your daily expectations are in regards to your own workload as well as the school work your child is doing. 
• At our house, we made this great schedule early on that certainly seemed doable, but after just one day, we realized that the 8:30 a.m. - 2:55 p.m school schedule did not work at home. Once we realized that 1-4 hours of schoolwork per day (depending on grade level) was sufficient, it relieved a lot of pressure for all of us. 

• Check Emails/Reminds from School
• We are constantly in contact with parents via Remind. And when the message requires more detail, teachers are reaching out through email. Please remember to check your messages and emails regularly.

• Create Dedicated Classrom Space
• If you haven't already, it's a great idea to create a space that your child can use as a dedicated learning space. Make this space comfortable and personal by displaying your child's artwork or completed school assignments. 

• Take Breaks Throughout the Day
• Studies show that students have an attention span of about 3-5 minute per year of a child’s age. That means that if your child is 6 years old, he or she probably has about 18-30 minutes of concentration before shutting down or losing focus. That is why it is important to plan for breaks and/or short bursts of activity throughout the day.

• Support Our "New" Classroom
• As you know by now, we are taking advantage of the online video communication tool, Zoom. In order to ensure the best possible experience for your child, please consider the following:
• Treat Zoom as a classroom. While we realize it may be difficult to provide a quiet space for your child to attend his/her Zoom meetings, please support your child in providing the best space possible. Time with your child’s classmates and teachers has been significantly reduced due to our current situation, so making best use of this precious time on Zoom is ideal. Some things we’d like parents to consider are:
• Keep distractions (i.e. siblings, pets, television, side conversations, etc.) away from students while Zoom is taking place
• Encourage your child to come ready to actively participate and do their personal best in discussions and the learning environment (i.e. dressed, focused, and thinking caps on)
• Prioritize your daily/weekly schedule to allow your child to be on time and engaged during Zoom

Years ago, the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," became a common quote in the education community. That statement has never been truer than this moment. We are in this together for the well-being of every child. I wish you good health and happiness during this time.