Have the kids been cranky and irritable at home after a long day tackling remote learning?
Parenting isn’t easy at the best of times, but when you’re juggling remote learning, working from home, and everyday household routines… It can feel a lot like mission impossible!
We understand that keeping a happy routine at home can be a challenge for all involved. Here are some tips from the team at Bodywell Healthcare, on how to support your kids physical and mental wellbeing whilst home-schooling, and help save your sanity in the process!
1. Encourage proper posture.
We pay close attention to our workplace setup as adults, and the same should apply for our kids.
Children who are undertaking remote learning tend to spend a lot of time sitting down to use their electronic devices, which adds up throughout the course of the day.
So how do we ensure a good setup for learning? Here are some tips for using a tablet at home:
- A desk and chair should match your child’s size
- Your child’s feet should rest firmly on the floor or on a foot rest
- Shoulders and back should be relaxed and well supported
- Consider a case or stand that supports the tablet in an upright position
Still not sure? Check out this handy video: Click to Watch
Remember your own posture as well! Leaning over to assist your child on their tablet can be tempting, but aim to keep your posture upright as much as possible.
2. Take breaks and get active
Taking breaks every 20-30 minutes can be a great way to balance out screen time with play, activity, and fun.
Taking time away from school work to focus on activity is a great way to encourage healthy habits for stressed-out kids, and provides a great opportunity for mums and dads to unwind too!
Something that we have all been enjoying with our families lately are the videos from Cosmic Kids Yoga – from Frozen to Star Wars themed yoga… we are sure there will be a video that motivates even the most hesitant of participants!
3. Stay hydrated.
Our bodies need adequate hydration to work properly and avoid injury. Remind your children to drink water regularly and to fill up or finish a glass of water every time they sit down.
4. Reduce eye strain
An important part of staying focused is preventing tired eyes.
To reduce eye strain:
- The screen should be at least an arms distance away from your child’s face.
- The workspace should be adequately lit
- Take regular breaks from screen usage following the 20:20:20 rule as outlined below
The 20:20:20 rule
- Take a break every 20 minutes
- For 20 seconds
- Looking at something 20 feet (6 meters) away
Still struggling?
If your child is experiencing stress or anxiety around home-schooling, you can visit KIDS HELPLINE for resources for kids of all ages, and for parents & caregivers.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s posture, or any pain they may be experiencing, please get in touch with us at the Bodywell clinic on 9717 1200 or send us an email at info@bodywellhealthcare.com.au