As parents adjust to the announcement that in-school classes will not resume in Ontario for the rest of the school year, a Brock University expert says several key steps can be taken to keep kids learning until the end of June and throughout the summer.<\/p>\n
Associate Professor of Educational Studies Debra Harwood says it\u2019s necessary for parents to start with what kids need most.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think what\u2019s important is remembering the basics of what children need, such as the sense of belonging within family, safety, and mental health and well-being,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n
With these key parameters at the forefront of any learning objective, Harwood believes the best outcomes can come through four simple steps:<\/p>\n
As outdoor temperatures climb, Harwood says the spring and summer seasons provide an ideal time to take some lessons outside.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe outdoors provides a wonderful prospect for endless learning and play for children, and it also offers holistic developmental benefits and much needed opportunities for mental wellness,\u201d she says. \u201cBeyond the physical benefits of the outdoors, it also promotes language development, problem-solving skills, children\u2019s ability to assess risks, increased concentration, improved self-esteem, and overall well-being.<\/p>\n
Whether lessons are taking place at the kitchen table, in the toy room or around the backyard, Harwood says it\u2019s important for parents to recognize that learning is not exclusive to school or school-based activities.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn general, we need a better appreciation for the fact that learning is happening everywhere especially within families \u2013 in every conversation, exchange, meal preparation, routine, backyard game children are learning,\u201d she says. \u201cFocus on practical life skills and having fun\u201d<\/p>\n