Today's Edition
TAARIQ HALIM (ABU DHABI)
The spring break has come to an end, but it's not back to school just yet, as kindergartens, private and public schools, and universities across the UAE remain closed for the start of the third academic term, due to the ongoing security concerns in the region.
Parents, teachers and students are now preparing to continue remote learning from Monday, March 23, for a period of two weeks.
The Ministry of Education said the situation will be reviewed on a weekly basis, and any decisions will be taken with the safety of students and educational staff in mind.
Although this won't be the first time school staff and families have had to manage online classes - the COVID-19 pandemic previously necessitating the implementation of remote learning, it nevertheless remains a challenging exercise for both adults and children.
Here is some practical advice for parents, based on guidance from the education authorities, to help make home study as beneficial and stress-free as possible.
Follow official school communication closely
The education authorities stress that parents should rely on the official channels and check school portals, emails, and Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) updates regularly.
Schools will provide families with timetables, attendance rules, platforms and assignments.
Updates on closures or reopening of schools will be reviewed weekly and communicated by the authorities and schools.
Create a stable home learning routine and space
The education authorities' guidelines emphasise continuity and structure. Distance learning is meant to maintain normal academic progress despite disruptions. The daily routine should be treated like a normal school day as far as possible - with set wake-up times, class sessions and breaks.
Parents are to help children set up their devices, log in, attend classes, and complete the scheduled school work.
Choose a simple, distraction-free learning space - a quiet, well-lit room where books and stationery are within reach.
Use headphones if the home is busy or noisy.
Prioritise children’s emotional well-being
One of the most critical considerations, especially during this period of uncertainty, schools are required to provide counselling and wellbeing support. Parents are advised to reach out to teachers if a child is struggling.
Parents should talk openly and calmly about the situation in an age-appropriate manner, asking how the child feels about it. Parents should reassure children - with facts, not false promises.
Exposure to distressing news and social media should be limited at this time.
The aim is to ensure children feel safe - both physically and emotionally.
Expect flexibility in assessments and workload
This is an uncertain for families but also for education staff, who are having to adapt schedules and lessons to the remote learning environment.
Exams and assessments may be adjusted or rescheduled, as schools try to maintain learning continuity while reducing the learning demands.
Authorities have made it clear that the remote learning measures are short-term and will be reviewed periodically.
Therefore, it is okay if the child falls slightly behind and if some days feel chaotic.
Parents and students are advised not to panic about grades during this time, and to "focus on understanding, not perfection."
Balance online time with activities
Too much screen time can quickly lead to burnout. Parents and teachers are advised to schedule short breaks between lessons, and add physical activities such as stretching, walking and play.
Including creative time (drawing, crafts, reading) also helps to keep energy levels stable and improve concentration.
Use government support for working parents
As part of efforts to support the educational process in the country, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources announced the introduction of flexible remote work arrangements for employees working in federal ministries and entities who are caregivers for their children, including fathers or mothers whose job roles meet the approved requirements for remote work.
This measure will apply during the distance learning period and to parents of students from kindergarten through Grade 8, as well as for children enrolled in nurseries.
Parents are advised to check with employers about flexible working arrangements.
If you’re working, coordinate and communicate
Many parents will be struggling to balance work and home schooling, and this can be overwhelming at first.
Working parents are advised to do short check-ins instead of constant supervision, and if necessary, to tell the child if there is an important work call or task to be completed.
Employees are advised to request flexibility from employers during the remote learning period.
