On Thursday 30th April, our managing director Adam Holland was part of a panel of experts, on a webinar hosted by Marketing Derby.
He shared his expertise to parents who are currently homeschooling, and here are the top tips for keeping children active at home during homeschooling.
“Over the past 6 weeks, our staff have continued to operate as normal as possible in schools, providing keyworker children with physical activities and games during the school day.
However, for children at home, things look different, so I want to quickly run over a few points about keeping children active at home.
Everyone is aware that exercise improves physical health. But perhaps what is less known is the impact it can have on our childrens mental health.
Confinement is not good for human beings, we as adults don’t cope with it terribly well, but especially children.
Children and young people need to do two types of physical activity each week in order to stay healthy. This includes aerobic exercise, such as running, as well as exercises to strengthen their muscles and bones.
We should aim for an average of at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day.
We need to reduce the time children spend sitting or lying down, and break up long periods of not moving with some form of activity. Walking, running, sports in the garden to name a few.
While academic work is vital, I’d also suggest that parents allow opportunities for children to spend time outside, whether that’s going for a walk or something as simple as playing in the garden.
Dancing can also help children keep active – and it makes us feel good. If you are able to create music playlists that they can move to, or follow a routine by online body coaches.
It doesn’t have to be movement based – focused activities, such as puzzles, or building Lego, can help keep children occupied, while arts and crafts help them stay creative, but these methods won’t work for every child of course.
Another aspect to consider, is children will miss their classmates, and crave that social aspect provided at school.
Skype or Zoom can help with this during homeschooling, whether that’s a discussion about homework, or setting each other physical challenges and watching each other take part.
While you, as parents may be anxious to ensure that their children are learning at home, don’t place too much emphasis on doing academic work: Parents and carers aren’t teachers, and it is important to also spend time building relationships, enjoying shared activities and reassuring children.”
To summarise the top tips –
- Break up homeschooling activities often,
- Ensure there is at least 60 minutes a day of physically activity,
- Spend time outdoors where possible,
- Keep in contact with their friends on video calls,
- Change activities often
…and remember you’re not their teachers, and you are all doing fantastic jobs at home.