Recognizing that learning is a personal journey for each child can ease parental concerns
Every child’s educational path is unique, and it’s crucial to understand that learning timelines are not set in stone. The pressures of meeting certain benchmarks by specific grade levels can be overwhelming, but as Kareem Neil, a special education teacher with 25 years of experience, points out, the focus should be on helping students get there when they get there. This individualized approach is particularly emphasized in special education but can be beneficial in general education settings as well.
Is My Child Behind? Expert Advice for Worried Parents
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As a parent, it’s natural to worry about whether your child is keeping up with their peers, especially after the disruptions caused by remote learning during the pandemic. The anxiety around this question is real and shared by many, but understanding the nature of learning and the resources available can help alleviate these concerns. While schools play a crucial role, it’s important to recognize that as a parent, you have the power to support your child’s learning journey with tools and strategies that can make a significant difference.
Building relationships with your child’s school can provide insights and reassurance
Connecting with your child’s school is a practical step parents can take to address their anxieties about their child’s progress. Kareem Neil advises parents to find a way to connect with the school, despite busy schedules, as this can help put their minds at ease. Understanding the real work happening in the classroom through direct communication with teachers can offer a clearer picture than report cards or progress notes alone.
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I would tell parents to find a way to connect to their school… because they’re the people who can put your mind at ease and can show you the real work that’s happening.
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Finding the right person at school to connect with can be a game-changer for your child’s education
Building relationships with the school might seem daunting, but it’s important to remember that it only takes one person to make a difference. Whether it’s the homeroom teacher, a guidance counselor, or even the art or gym teacher, finding an ally at school can provide the support and advocacy your child needs. It’s also essential to give people grace and presume good intentions, as everyone has been affected by the challenges of the pandemic.
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Understanding Interrupted Learning: Instead of focusing on the concept of 'learning loss,' parents should consider their child's education as 'interrupted learning.' This perspective encourages looking forward rather than backward, acknowledging that all students, including those with learning challenges, have experienced disruptions due to the pandemic. It's important to recognize that timelines for learning are not set in stone and that children can still achieve their educational goals, albeit at their own pace.
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Building Relationships with Schools: Parents are encouraged to connect with their child's school to ease anxieties about their child's progress. Establishing a relationship with teachers and school staff can provide parents with a clearer understanding of the efforts being made to support their child's learning and help bridge any gaps. This connection can be crucial in gaining reassurance and practical insights into their child's educational journey.
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Requesting Supplemental Resources: If parents feel that their child has learning gaps, they should not hesitate to ask schools for additional resources. Many schools have supplemental materials that were used during remote learning periods, which can be requested to support continued learning at home. These resources can help address specific areas of concern and provide parents with tools to assist their child's education.
Utilizing supplemental resources can help bridge learning gaps and support your child’s education
Schools often have supplemental materials that can be used to reinforce learning at home. Asking for these resources can be a proactive way to address any gaps in your child’s education, including challenges related to Dyscalculia . During remote learning, many schools sent home both low-tech and high-tech materials to support students, and these can be requested to continue providing additional practice and learning opportunities.
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Part of it is to then say can I just ask you for some more of that kind of stuff that you sent during the break… ask for those kinds of things.
"Overcoming the challenges of Dyscalculia by enhancing your child’s Number Sense can lead to a better future
One specific challenge that some children face is Dyscalculia, a learning difference that affects a child’s ability to understand numbers and mathematical concepts. This can impact their Number Sense, making it harder for them to grasp fundamental math skills. As a parent, your role is crucial in helping your child overcome this challenge. By working with educators and utilizing available resources, you can help enhance your child’s number sense, leading to a more confident and successful educational journey.
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