As teachers and parents, we’re all feeling overwhelmed by the news about COVID-19 and the effects on our everyday lives. But, supporting learning and keeping a sense of normalcy and routine for kids is important, especially during sudden school closures. As schools and teachers are working quickly to create distance learning plans, parents are juggling many uncertainties including work situations and basic needs, all while trying to keep their kids engaged with learning at home.
While this new reality won’t be easy, the good news is that there are a lot of resources to help educators and parents navigate the road ahead.

Here are five ways parents can help keep their child on track when school is closed:

1. Focus on Key Skills
Be sure that you are working on Reading, Writing and Math every day. Reading - There are many opportunities to read. Read to and with your child. They can read to you, their stuffies and their pets. Record them reading and send that recording to their teacher. Read the room - remember when we used to read cereal boxes at breakfast (back in the day).
Writing - Journals, lists, notes and letters
Math - Counting, sorting, finding patterns in everyday thing. Making a shopping list with the online flyer and adding up the items. Card and dice games. Cooking and baking is math = measurement.

2. Keep a Routine
Create a daily schedule with your child that includes math and reading as well as choice activities such as drawing, building, or dancing. It doesn’t have to be perfect so don’t stress. Parents and teachers have been sharing lots of great examples online.

3. Turn Off the News and Talk
Limit the news which can be scary, especially for young children. Remind your child they are safe and that life will get back to normal. Ask them how they are feeling. They can draw or write about it too.

4. Stay Connected
Your school is likely creating a plan for digital learning. Stay in touch with teachers and other parents to work through it together. Share your child's successes and challenges with their teachers. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, we are here for you.

5. Enjoy Family Time
Play cards, cook a new or favorite recipe, make up silly songs, go for walks or bike rides, look at old family photos and write a story about them. Your child will be learning and having fun!

While this is certainly a stressful time, it’s also an opportunity. With extra time at home, talk to your child about their strengths, interests, and where they might need more support.