Emotions and energy over holidays and extended school breaks are guaranteed to go up and down, for both grown-ups and kids. Here are three tips to help your students stay on the learning track during the holidays:
1. Offer flexible, timely content
Embrace the flexibility that digital resources provide by sharing resources that students can access when they’re on-the-go visiting family or when they find downtime at home. While instructional calendars are often packed full of expectations, view breaks as an opportunity to build on learning that’s already been done, explore “fun” topics, or think creatively, not as a chance to build new skills. Consider sharing Interactives, reading and math reviews, or timely holiday content to allow students to explore content that practices academic skills but doesn’t add additional pressure during a time students should be recharging.
2. Communicate ideas with parents!
Share ideas with parents to help them make learning fun over the holidays. Parents may be searching for ways to keep students’ minds active, but do not know where to start. Teachers know that having resources for students to explore is only one part of learning, so consider sharing ways to help motivate students to spend time learning over the break! Here are some simple tips to share with parents:
- Consider having your child engage with learning resources during his or her most alert and responsive time of the day. Some students learn best in the morning, while others prefer afternoons or evenings.
- Allow learning to be casual during holiday breaks. A nice, comfy chair or spot on the couch might be just what your learner needs to boost engagement!
- Take interest in what your child is learning! Ask questions, let them explain the topics to you, and look at the resources they’re reviewing. Holiday breaks arethe perfect opportunity for family time and learning doesn’t have to get in the way of that!
3. Celebrate that students attempted learning during the break.
When planning holiday learning content, adjust expectations by focusing on perseverance or lesson completion instead of time spent on lessons. Give students the freedom to enjoy the program without making it feel like a mandatory assignment. You’ll not only set students up for success but also create a positive experience in which they are more likely to engage in a deeper and organic manner!
While the holidays bring a time to recharge and spend time with family, offering flexible content is a great way to help students stay engaged in learning during their time away from the classroom!
