Parents Help Their Children Acclimate To Distance Learning

A local Meridian mother shares her experience with helping her two elementary school daughters adapt to virtual learning.

Due to the pandemic, Andrea Mcintosh’s two daughters had to begin their school year from home via distance learning, instead of a classroom at Poplar Springs Elementary. Despite this unique circumstance, Andrea designed a "learning corner" for her daughters, 5th grader Brooklyn, and 2nd grader Carter, hoping to provide them with a structured learning environment.

“I knew that if I didn’t design a certain spot for them, they would be all over the house with those chrome books, they’d still be in bed, at the dining room table, their stuff would be everywhere. So, I kind of wanted to make them comfortable. I kind of wanted to make sure it still felt like school, so when I created that corner, I wanted to make sure it was a space they wanted to be in, as something that was really good for them to actually do their work and I just kind of took a spot in house and I kind of just designated it just for them, and when they wake up in the morning, they get ready, they walk to their corner –just like they’re going to school, and I think that, that really helps a whole lot,” said Andrea McIntosh.

The mother of two shared that there were pros to her daughters learning from home.

“Spending more time with them and watching how they actually learn. I’m learning a lot about my kids, and watching who is okay to just sit in front of the computer, and who needs a little more personal one on one hands on time. So, I’m learning a lot about them. So, spending time with them, and learning the type of learners I have – has really been a cool thing,” said McIntosh.

She also offered a piece of advice to other parents, who are adjusting to the distance learning format.

“Be patient, don’t stress as much. Just take a breather, because things are going to go wrong. The internet’s going to shut down, apps are not –they’re not going to work all of the time, just take a breather. It’s okay, everybody’s dealing with it”, said McIntosh.

As of now, students with the Meridian Public-School District will continue their education via distance learning until September 8, when the district plans to have students return to campus for in-person learning.