Advice for parents and young people
This series of videos featuring psychologist Dr Linda provides insight on how to deal with the impact of remote learning on children’s wellbeing, particularly the etiquette around classes delivered via video calling platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
The remote learning experience of children and young people will differ across the country but what impact will attending lessons through a screen have on our young people? What will the impact of being ‘on or off-camera’ have on the way they see themselves and how can we better support them? Watch the videos to learn more about what you can do today to address these questions.
The first thing we need to do is to start with the basics:
Kids attention span is obviously shorter and this is something parents need to discuss with schools. When they’re younger, those focuses come in short bursts for both, but especially for boys.
Don’t stop checking in on your child. It’s about working to their needs with their teacher and technology so they can have a better experience.
When it comes to secondary school children they’re extremely socially aware, and their digital self is often very separated from their real selves.
There is this idea that kids don’t want to be seen ‘on camera’ but they’re usually in school being seen sitting next to a classmate which is exposure, so that’s something that parents can challenge as a parent.
For example, is your child having issues coming off mute and speaking up in class? Did they always have an issue speaking up? Is this something new? I would guess that if you always had an issue speaking up, but you’re probably just much more aware of it.
Some children are so used to seeing filtered versions of themselves. Seeing pictures on a camera that is the real you is about self-acceptance.
Ask yourself these questions:
Think about anything else you need help with when you’re at home, whether that’s from your teacher or parent/primary caregiver don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need.
Start by talking about exposure – you may feel that you’re more exposed than usual due to having your camera on during remote lessons.
Perhaps when you see a big picture of yourself on the screen you feel more self-aware but actually, everyone’s very self-aware of themselves anyway.
In actual fact, this isn’t any different to normal when you’re sat in a classroom, next to a classmate. It’s the same level of exposure, we’re just more aware of it.
Talk about some individual issues and how they can be resolved, for example;
Another thing is about looking at this idea of my online self. Seeing pictures on camera that are the real you and this is really important as it’s about self-acceptance.
In today’s world, we can be so used to seeing a filtered version of ourselves. Think of it this way, would you think bad of your friends, because they don’t have a filter on their face during class?
Question your inner thoughts and feelings, and do some critical thinking around it, for example, explore and analyse the facts, rather than immediately being tough on yourself.
Push back on yourself. Challenge your own ideas on it and talk to others about it. Lastly, just remember to check in with your parents or teachers if you do have any problems.