The pandemic transformed the educational landscape in the Philippines. As schools grappled with the challenges of adapting to remote learning, students and parents had to adjust to a new way of schooling.
At Kumon, remote instruction was also the norm during the early days of lockdown. However, as restrictions gradually ease, we have shifted from purely online learning to a hybrid setup, combining both virtual and face-to-face classes. This new approach brings about its own set of opportunities and obstacles for students and parents alike. In this article, we’ll explore five essential tips to help your child thrive in a hybrid learning environment.
Dedicate Time and Space for Learning
At home, your child has easy access to smart devices and toys that can easily derail their focus on their studies and reducing these distractions can be a little tricky. As tempting as it may be to allow your child to study on the couch or in their bedroom, it is crucial to establish a clear boundary between study and leisure spaces.
Meanwhile, dedicating the time to take your child to their Kumon Center for their face-to-face classes is also essential to their success in a hybrid learning setup. We understand that this sometimes can be a big ask, especially for a parent who already has a stacked schedule. However, dedicating at least an hour of your time can go a long way in your child’s Kumon study.
Reward Your Child’s Good Behavior
Positive reinforcement can go a long way in motivating your child to excel in their studies. During face-to-face sessions, children receive words of encouragement from their Instructor to create an environment which boosts their self-esteem and fosters a sense of accomplishment, encouraging them to continue their hard work. As much as possible, this habit should continue at home too.
Whenever your child demonstrates good behavior, academic achievements, or shows dedication to learning, make sure to acknowledge and reward their efforts. The aim is to create a positive association with learning, making it a gratifying experience for your child.
Build A Routine
Routine is a big part of your child’s day-to-day experience with Kumon. During face-to-face classes, the Instructor trains your child to follow a basic study routine – from simple page flipping to cleaning their desks and returning their worksheets in the racks.
It is highly encouraged that you continue this basic routine at home to build a sense of stability for your child. Consequently, you must ensure that their schedule includes dedicated time for their Kumon online classes, independent study time and sufficient break times. It is also important to note that involving your child in creating the routine will make them feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for their studies. A well-structured routine provides a framework for learning, enhances productivity, and reduces stress and anxiety.
Seek Out the Best Tools for Learning
In the age of technology, there is an abundance of resources available to support your child’s learning journey. From video conferencing apps to messaging platforms, these tools can aid in reinforcing your child’s study and promote interactive learning at home or during face-to-face classes. Similarly, Kumon’s new tablet-study service, KUMON CONNECT, is a good way help your child achieve greater heights in their academics.
With KUMON CONNECT, your child directly receives their assigned worksheets on their tablets ensuring that they can conduct their Kumon study smoothly whether they are at home or in face-to-face classes. Your child also receives marked worksheets via the app which allows them to independently correct their wrong answers, if there are any. In face-to-face classes, the study approach the Instructor gives your child is similar to those who are doing paper worksheets. At home, you don’t have to worry that there will be any difference because your child’s Instructor will be there virtually to guide them during study time making sure that their needs are met every step of the way.
Maintain an Open Communication with Your Child’s Instructor
Staying in touch with your child’s Instructor is vital in a hybrid setup. By taking advantage of messaging platforms available to you and the Instructor, you can use this as an opportunity to share your concerns and challenges with them to gain valuable insights on your child’s Kumon journey. Do not fret as Instructors are more than willing to offer guidance and support to both students and parents. Collaborating with your child’s Instructor creates a sense of partnership in their education, enabling you to work together to ensure their success.
As we navigate through the ever-changing landscape of education, parents play a crucial role in supporting their children towards success. With love, support, and guidance, you can help your child overcome the challenges of hybrid learning and emerge as confident, resilient, and successful individuals in the future.
