We may be in #stayathome mode, but that doesn't mean that study has stopped. For me, nothing has changed. I'm already a distance student studying a University course online. For the kid, it will be very different on Monday as he starts his Term 2 of Grade 6 online.
We've set up a dedicated study spot for him at the dining table. While he does have a study desk, it was much easier to set up his computer and camera on the big table. It also allows for an unchanging backdrop, no cameos of Mum walking past while he's in lessons! It's also positioned where I can easily peek out and see him from my desk.
I've been reading online about how stressed parents are trying to manage the kids doing school from home. I'm very lucky that he's old enough to get on with the work while I'm busy working myself. We have a plan that the teachers provided prior to the Easter School Holidays and did a week's trial of, so kind of know what to expect.
I was really pleased to see that their schedule only has 2 one hour blocks of really focused study each day, with the rest of the day spent on activities like reading, drawing, watching educational videos/shows, craft, playing music, building Lego, and helping with meal preparation. It's very clear and gives him enough direction to keep going if I'm tied up with work calls and online meetings. I'm really thankful for the time and thought the teachers have put in to preparing the learning package.
While my study situation hasn't changed, it does feel a lot more draining now that I'm working all day, then studying at night in the same place, staring at the same screen. I have an assessment due Monday night and it feels like I've barely left this desk all week. I've had to be a lot more conscious of taking breaks to get up and walk around.
I use the Pomodoro Technique and have started using the Forest App to stay focused, planting cute little trees that grow as long as I don't touch my phone. It also reminds me when to take a break between study sessions. The jigsaw puzzle has been a great distraction during these breaks, giving me something different to think about and look at.
Is anyone else juggling working from home with studying and parenting at the moment? How are you finding it?
Until next time,
@Sammie
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@sammie. Posted 18 April 2020.