During Distance Learning, we recognise that parents and caregivers have an even greater share of responsibility in the learning process, and our teachers will seek ways to best guide and support them. Learning will not diminish, rather it will be enhanced by a rich and focused interaction between school and home. This is a time of deep learning, of precious family time and authentic collaboration.
- We recognise the challenges of technology use for our younger students in the Preschool division. Preschool teachers will use a combination of synchronous and asynchronous interactions.
- In the case of an anticipated school closure, printed instructional packages will be distributed to students or delivered to students’ homes to ensure that they have continual access to appropriate, high-quality learning materials that are suitable for their grade levels.
- The focus for Preschool instructional packages will be on interdisciplinary connections with extensions to maintain key concepts and skills in music, art, health and physical education.
- Instructional packages include fun and engaging activities, worksheets, and guidelines for parents on how to use the provided material.
- If the school closure occurs unexpectedly and the school campus is out of reach for the school community, families will be able to access electronic versions of the packages.
Learning Platform and Communications
- The online lessons and interactions will be conducted through Microsoft Teams. ClassDojo will continue to be our main form of communication.
- Our Preschool team will be available to provide feedback, assist you in your child’s learning at home and respond to any questions at the earliest possible.
- Please continue to check your email regularly for school-wide updates.
Additional Tips for Preschool Parents
We understand that it can be particularly challenging to care for and support your child’s Distance Learning, but we’ve heard from parents that it has helped them to understand their child’s learning needs, and an opportunity to learn to adapt and grow and most importantly, spend quality time together.
Our Preschool team is always on standby to help troubleshoot any difficulties or provide practical advise for tricky situations that you face at home with your child.
Here are some extra tips that we would like to share with you:
Build a routine and keep trying: Stick to a schedule and a routine that works for your family. Having a general “outline” for the day will help alleviate stress for you and help your child feel secure. Some pointers for making a schedule:
Limit screen time: During Distance Learning, screen time can be incorporated into a balanced activity diet and should be used strategically, such as when you need your child to have less of your attention (such as when you’re preparing dinner, working or helping a sibling with schoolwork). Otherwise, we recommend limiting screen time for children.
Relax, and have fun: Young children learn best through fun and play. Let down your hair, get messy and just have fun with your child. Through play, your child will learn coordination, language and social skills.
Be kind to yourself: We understand that distance learning can be challenging. Be patient with your child and enjoy the learning process. We are all just doing our best.