Last week, some schools resumed e-learning. I saw lots of pictures and videos of children at various “class stations” in their homes. Some in school uniforms, some in mufti. Some in their parents’ work stations, some others on the dining table.
First, kudos to all schools who are trying to create some semblance of normalcy for our children. Kudos to the parents for making an effort to comply with school plans so that children can get some learning. From the reviews I saw, children were excited to see their friends again.
That being said, if we do not make certain safety considerations, we might inadvertently harm our kids.
Here are some key things to bear in mind to ensure safe e-learning:
1. Choice of furniture
Most furniture in some homes are more suited to adults than children. Therefore, if a child spends long hours learning they might not maintain proper posture because the seats are uncomfortable for their body size. This will eventually lead to body strains and pains. So, set up age appropriate “class stations”. If you do not have and cannot buy, improvise with what you have. Throw pillows can be great for their lower back. Elevating the laptop with books can be done on a low table etc.
2. Appropriate lighting
Since the children would be looking at computers for long periods, how can you ensure eye issues do not arise? Ensure the class station is properly lit but this lighting must not reflect on the screen. It’s also important to manage the brightness of the screen. Ensure that the child’s eyes are not too close to the screen
3.Keep necessary study tools within reach
What are all the things needed to ensure the school day goes smoothly? Keep within reach in the class station. This ensures that your child is not overstretching, overreaching, bending or twisting unnecessarily. Remember their bodies are still growing and we do want them to have musculoskeletal disorders down the line
4.Breaks
Breaks must be enforced periodically. It is unhealthy to coop the child at a class station for hours on end. Even if they do not want to move, as teachers and parents we must encourage them to move.
5.Online safety
I did some reading and I found that there are 3 kinds of risks children can be exposed to here:
- Content risk: exposure to content that is harmful, visually disturbing or not age appropriate
- Conduct risk: behaviour that makes another person uncomfortable e.g. bullying, sexting
- Contact risk: exposure to wrong persons e.g. scammers or adults posing as teenagers
We need to educate our children on the right actions to take in different scenarios so that even in our absence they can handle the pressures of the world.
6.Frequent Hydration
Yes, water. Encourage them to drink more water. Encourage healthier habits, drinking water is good for them in the long run.
Please consider your child’s safety as we embrace the new changes. Hope this was helpful?
