At-Home Learning
Information for Families
Dear Parents,
I hope this note finds you well and in good spirits. My name is Jenny McNulty, I am the learning specialist for the Ft. Worth Diocesan Schools. As we travel on this journey together, I would like to share information and strategies as to how we can help our children and each other during this time of transition and uncertainty.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns and I will work closely with you and your school to help provide the best support possible.
Blessings,
Jenny McNulty
At-Home Learning Tips
Create a Daily Schedule
- Create and post a daily schedule in your home as a visual reference.
- Have set times for school, meals, chores, play, and other daily activities.
- Consistency is key to the success of a routine.
Create Goals
- Think of what you want to achieve/tasks to complete.
- Write them down estimate how long each task should take.
- Cross out each task as you achieve them!
Maximize Time
- Eliminate distractions and clutter.
- Utilize a visual timer for time management and goal setting.
- Take frequent breaks.
Sustain Energy
- Be sure to get enough sleep.
- Eat healthy brain foods.
- Exercise.
- Study during the most productive time of day for you.
Below is an example of a daily schedule to follow or you can create your own! Parents working from home can utilize the independent pockets of time to accomplish their goals.
Community Outreach
Community Outreach
Community Outreach
Tips for Managing your Child's Anxiety
Below are a few tips in helping to manage your child's anxiety related to COVID-19:
- Acknowledge and manage your own anxiety. Children are very good at picking up parents emotional energy, so it is really important to manage your own fear and anxiety and not amplify your child's fears.
- Ask how your child is doing. Let them tell you if they are worried or scared or have questions about COVID-19. If they do, have a well-informed discussion. Go to the CDC website (or another trusted source) and show them what the scientists are saying.
- Limit news exposure. Experts say it’s a good idea to decrease your viewing time in common family areas of your home. If necessary, read news reports discretely on your phone away from your children. Be mindful of little ears playing nearby that overhear news reports you’re watching or hearing.
- Maintain a routine. To offset this sudden and enormous change of schedule, try to put in place a reliable daily home routine. Wake at the same time each day; carve out blocks of time for academics, exercise, and entertainment; eat regular meals together, and remember that regularity is calming and reassuring.
- Try to play - and laugh. Break out board games, build a house of cards, bake cookies, or take a family hike. Show your children that there’s an upside to all the cancellations.
For more strategies on managing anxiety: