Dole Academy has been providing families with online lessons since 2012. So we understand it can be a struggle for children, and their parents, to adapt to the challenges of virtual learning models. Since education has been somewhat interrupted this year, it can help for parents to have a few tricks up their sleeves to keep the learning going even when their kids are away from screens. Which is why we wanted to offer these tips and ideas for fun, educational and beneficial activities you can plan for your own children to boost their success.
Backyard Biology Lessons
Want to help your kids ace their biology homework? Then you should spend more time out in your own backyard! Seriously, teaching kids more about biology can be as simple as getting out into the yard together and spending that time studying the local “wildlife.” Have your kids collect plants, flowers and even blades of grass to classify. Or you could check out water from local sources under a microscope, or keep an eye out for domestic and wild critters you have in your neighborhood.
Growing and Cooking Activities
Speaking of backyard activities, gardening can be a wonderful way to help smaller children fine-tune their motor skills and learn some science basics. You can even measure the plants each week and subtract these sums so your littlest ones pick up some real-world math lessons. Plus, you can turn the fruits (or veggies) of all of that hard work into healthy recipes for your entire family. In fact, you can try cooking healthy meals as a family for more fun learning time.
Educational Gaming Time
Okay we know what you may be thinking: educational gaming seems like an oxymoron, especially when it comes to popular online games kids are loving these days. The thing is, your kids are actually picking up valuable cognitive skills when they play their favorite games! Working a controller helps children further develop their fine motor skills, amd all of that strategy really boosts their problem-solving abilities. So, relax some of those screen limits and let your children burn off some stress while sneakily boosting their brain power.
Reliable and Fast Internet
While we’re on the subject of online gaming, or online anything, it’s important for your child’s success to have a reliable internet connection. Preferably a connection that can handle all of the bandwidth needed for online games, virtual activities (including virtual reality or VR) and of course, your remote work responsibilities. Upgrading your connection can relieve frustration for your children and for yourself.
Creative Art Projects
When you want to give your children a break from learning but still work on skills to relieve stress, creating art could be the way to go. Art can be especially helpful for children who may be struggling in the classroom due to a learning disability. If you want to encourage your little ones to get creative, try setting up a space where you can both draw, paint and make a mess without any consequences. Then let your imaginations run free as you create!
Daily Exercise Sessions
Have you ever wondered why kids have to take PE in school? Aside from helping younger children burn off excess energy, exercise has some pretty significant neurological benefits. When adults or children spend time exercising, they’re also improving their memory, concentration and overall mental health. That last perk can be especially helpful if you or your kids have been battling anxiety or depression during the pandemic. If you or your children are having a hard time focusing on work or assignments, start scheduling daily family fitness breaks.
If your children are struggling with certain subjects or changes this year, know that you don’t have to go it alone. You can use the ideas above to help your children overcome challenges and develop a love for learning. When you need a bigger boost, you can also consider turning to the teachers at Dole Academy for your virtual learning needs.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Backyard Biology Lessons
Want to help your kids ace their biology homework? Then you should spend more time out in your own backyard! Seriously, teaching kids more about biology can be as simple as getting out into the yard together and spending that time studying the local “wildlife.” Have your kids collect plants, flowers and even blades of grass to classify. Or you could check out water from local sources under a microscope, or keep an eye out for domestic and wild critters you have in your neighborhood.
Growing and Cooking Activities
Speaking of backyard activities, gardening can be a wonderful way to help smaller children fine-tune their motor skills and learn some science basics. You can even measure the plants each week and subtract these sums so your littlest ones pick up some real-world math lessons. Plus, you can turn the fruits (or veggies) of all of that hard work into healthy recipes for your entire family. In fact, you can try cooking healthy meals as a family for more fun learning time.
Educational Gaming Time
Okay we know what you may be thinking: educational gaming seems like an oxymoron, especially when it comes to popular online games kids are loving these days. The thing is, your kids are actually picking up valuable cognitive skills when they play their favorite games! Working a controller helps children further develop their fine motor skills, amd all of that strategy really boosts their problem-solving abilities. So, relax some of those screen limits and let your children burn off some stress while sneakily boosting their brain power.
Reliable and Fast Internet
While we’re on the subject of online gaming, or online anything, it’s important for your child’s success to have a reliable internet connection. Preferably a connection that can handle all of the bandwidth needed for online games, virtual activities (including virtual reality or VR) and of course, your remote work responsibilities. Upgrading your connection can relieve frustration for your children and for yourself.
Creative Art Projects
When you want to give your children a break from learning but still work on skills to relieve stress, creating art could be the way to go. Art can be especially helpful for children who may be struggling in the classroom due to a learning disability. If you want to encourage your little ones to get creative, try setting up a space where you can both draw, paint and make a mess without any consequences. Then let your imaginations run free as you create!
Daily Exercise Sessions
Have you ever wondered why kids have to take PE in school? Aside from helping younger children burn off excess energy, exercise has some pretty significant neurological benefits. When adults or children spend time exercising, they’re also improving their memory, concentration and overall mental health. That last perk can be especially helpful if you or your kids have been battling anxiety or depression during the pandemic. If you or your children are having a hard time focusing on work or assignments, start scheduling daily family fitness breaks.
If your children are struggling with certain subjects or changes this year, know that you don’t have to go it alone. You can use the ideas above to help your children overcome challenges and develop a love for learning. When you need a bigger boost, you can also consider turning to the teachers at Dole Academy for your virtual learning needs.
Photo Credit: Pexels