Online classes and stress – How to help your children cope

Kids Learning

Covid-19 pandemic has made social distancing a norm. With social distancing came online classes. In order to keep the academic schedule going, online classes system has come into the picture. This system, although has its benefits of smart education. It has its own disadvantages. The prime one being stress.

With increased screen time and mental fatigue, behavioral changes are observed in children. Reduced patience, defiance, increased arguments are few characteristic changes. To help them cope with the new normal, parents just have to be there for them. Here are a few things you can do to make things easier for your little one.

1. Take breaks in between online classes

With constant exposure to screens, children feel tired and anxious. To avoid this, short breaks are necessary. Remember that before online classes, your children have had timely breaks between the classes.

2. Social connections with friends

Your children have had a good social connection with their classmates in schools. To let them know that they are not alone, make them talk to their friends. Video calls, phone calls, and any mode of connection work great. Children always tend to open up with the same age groups as compared to parents or any elders.

3. Move the bodies

Sitting for hours in front of electronics without moving leads to several problems among kids. This can cause body pains, fatigue, and indigestion. The effects, in the long run, are even serious – like obesity. To help your kid overcome this, make sure they stand or walk now and then. Even better, get them to dance or exercise. You, too, join them and make the activity fun for them. Moreover, exercise, yoga, and dance are such mood-lifters any day.

4. Talk about their online classes

It is always nice to ask kids what they have learned and how are things going. Let them talk their heart out. Do not react quickly even if there’s something wrong. Tell them it’s okay. Take some time to process it and explain it to them gently. Be a good listener. Let them know you are there for them no matter what.

5. Involve them in an activity

Children get bored and stressed after a long day. They barely have a mood to do anything. But you have to involve them in fun activities like painting, baking or gardening. Take them to walk and help them relieve the stress. They may not communicate straight away about what they want, but you can always take the cues.

6. Spend some family-time

With all the seriousness of online education and assignments, children tend to think that it’s too crucial for them to relax. They get competitive and over-do things to prove to their teachers or peers. If they get time to spend with the family, they realize what matters. They understand that online classes and education aren’t everything.

With all that being said, every child is different. Know about their interests before you force them into an activity or a change. Respect their space. Treat them with care!