Top tips for online learning
Discover tips for creating an effective study space, using AI tools, managing screen time, and balancing online with offline activities to support your child’s learning.
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How to support children’s online learning
Supporting your child’s online learning journey involves creating a structured yet flexible environment that encourages focus, engagement, and balance. Below, we share practical tips to help you ensure your child thrives in their digital education.
A consistent daily schedule is essential for effective online learning.
- Set clear start and end times: Establish a regular learning routine to create structure, even if lessons are self-paced.
- Include breaks: Plan short breaks between study sessions to help your child recharge and maintain focus.
- Balance activities: Allocate time for offline hobbies, physical activities, and family interaction to prevent burnout.
- Keep it flexible: Adjust the routine as needed to accommodate your child’s energy levels and school requirements.
Balancing screen use is key to maintaining children’s wellbeing.
- Set limits: Establish boundaries for daily screen use to include learning, leisure, and downtime.
- Encourage breaks: Use techniques like the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Promote offline activities: Incorporate outdoor play, reading, or creative projects to counterbalance screen time.
- Use Tools: Apps like Forest or built-in screen time settings can help manage usage.
Keeping up to date with the platforms and tools children use ensures a safer learning experience.
- Research tools: Review the functionality and educational value of apps and websites. Platforms like Common Sense Media offer detailed reviews.
- Check privacy settings: Make sure the apps and websites your child uses protect their personal information by reviewing privacy settings and turning on options like restricted profiles or parental controls.
- Talk about cybersecurity: Teach your child to identify phishing attempts, create strong passwords, and avoid sharing personal information.
- Stay updated: Technology evolves quickly—read blogs, join parent forums, or follow educational resources to stay informed about new trends.
Engaging with learning
Getting involved and playing an active role in your child’s learning can significantly enhance their experience.
Have conversations about their lessons or studying, especially for new or challenging topics, to show support and foster interest. Ask questions and encourage discussions about what they’ve learned to deepen understanding and critical thinking. Be sure to recognise progress and celebrate their achievements, whether it’s completing a module or mastering a skill, to keep motivation high.
Check the apps and tools your child uses for learning to make sure they are age-appropriate and beneficial for their education. The Educational App Store has a range of educational apps that you can explore with your child.
Teach safe AI use
Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming a part of schoolwork and education for children. AI can be a great tool for learning, but only if children use it correctly.
Try using AI alongside your child to teach them how they should engage with it, and help them identify AI tools that are suitable for them.
More in the hub
Supporting resources
See the latest articles on online gaming topics and find resources to support children and young people.
The Online Together Project
Digital Matters
Device parental controls
Online safety teaching resources
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