Setting Up the Learning Environment

The ACT and NSW Departments of Education has created a simple and concise advice page for parents and carers to help facilitate learning at home. Covering key considerations, setting up learning spaces, wellbeing, communication and technology management, the site is a rich resource for parents and carers who may be feeling unsure about what they can do at home. Of particular note are the following points:

• "We recognise that every home is different. Where possible, it’s important to provide a quiet and comfortable learning space. Your child may have a regular place for doing homework under normal circumstances, but this space may not be suitable for an extended period of time. For some families, having all children around one table may work best.

  Where possible, extended learning should take place in a space your family shares. For example, a lounge room or dining room. These spaces are preferable over a bedroom, where:

  • it can be isolating for your child
  • supervision can be more challenging.

  It should be a place:

  • that can be quiet at times
  • that has a strong internet signal, if possible
  • where you or another adult is present and monitoring your children’s learning."

• Start and end each day with a check-in.
• Encourage regular exercise breaks. Options could include exercise videos, apps, dancing, floor exercises, yoga, walking around the garden or using home exercise equipment. For example, a stationary bicycle, basketball hoop, or other sporting equipment.
• Encourage healthy eating habits and drinking enough water.
• Keep normal bedtime routines for younger children. Expect the same from your older primary and high school aged children too.  https://sites.google.com/ed.act.edu.au/act-home-learning/resources-to-support-home-learning/guide-for-home-learning?authuser=0