Tips to keep kids active while learning from home

Rohan Parikh

As schools closed to protect children from the onslaught of the pandemic, children worldwide were forced to adapt to virtual learning and its many disadvantages. Socially isolating is difficult, and that’s especially true for children. Under such circumstances, It is the job of parents and educators to keep children actively engaged. And do so from the comfort of their homes so that they can stay healthy and happy.

 Simply put, keeping children active while they are learning from home is vital for their well-being. Hence, there is no reason we should let COVID-19 stop us from making children’s fitness a priority. Because when we do, we will inculcate healthy habits that will last longer than the present pandemic.

 So, where do we start?

 Finding small ways to work movement into the routine can make a big difference

 Schedule recess at home: With remote learning being the norm today for most children, they no longer have a fun recess where they play with their friends and happiness comes easy. Hence, it is recommended that school hours are set apart from one another so that kids can enjoy some fresh air and indulge in fun activities. A minimum of two 30-minutes breaks can do wonders for children. Parents can think of fun and exciting activities they can do with their children.

 Make time for some physical fitness exercises indoors: Staying indoors and being confined to a screen can have health costs for children. If your indoor space is limited, it does not mean that your exercises need to be limited, too. As a parent, you can try out some yoga with your children. Set an alarm if the need arises, because consistency is key. On other days, do a hula hoop contest and have some fun as a family. You can also play freeze dance once in a while so that you can get your kids moving while keeping them happy.

 Consider basic outdoor activities: Let your kids take a bike ride in the backyard, or have them help you in the garden. It will help ease the monotony of the current situation and keep your children healthy and happy. While you two pull out weeds in the garden or water plants, you will not only be indulging in physical activity but also having some quality time spent together.

 Teachers can adapt lessons that include movement: The benefits of physical activity go beyond basic health concerns. When children engage in regular physical activity, they tend to perform better academically. Breaks or recess is not the only way to get children to move. Teachers can adapt lessons that include action. They can ask younger students to measure different things around their house using a ruler rather than just measuring a piece of paper. Other students can be asked to fetch a topic-relevant item from their homes. This will motivate them to get up from the chair, move around and help them effectively break from just staring into the screen.

 When parents and teachers come together to work some fun activities and movement into the daily routine, they add a dose of happiness to their children’s daily lives. Regular physical activity can also help kids stay focused. And that might make learning during a pandemic easier for children, teachers and parents alike.

The writer is Managing Director of Seven River International School – A school by The Acres Foundation