Combating Covid-19: How to transition from parent to teacher with ease

Don't fret, mums and dads. Keep these pointers in mind as you embark on what is sure to be a learning experience for you as well as your ward

Parents have always juggled several hats at once; from provider to disciplinarian and chef to confidante, it's almost part of the job description that they should essay all these multiple roles with élan. However, the recent suspension of physical classes at schools has necessitated yet another feather be added to those caps - that of academic teacher. Understandably, the new role has had many folks in a right fix, with several feeling overwhelmed or way out of their depth.
Colin Diamond, Professor of Educational Leadership at University of Birmingham Dubai, offers some encouragement - and some much-needed advice - to all the mums and dads who've had to don their teaching caps overnight. To put it simply, he says: you've got this!

What is the main piece of advice you'd give parents who are finding themselves suddenly having to play the role of teachers too?
One-on-one or small group teaching is intense. In the current situation, children don't have the same space there normally would be at school; they don't have the downtime, the chance to play or go for a walk, or talk to their friends. Try to encourage physical movement during and between lessons, and have fun with your children - think about cooking easy dishes like pizzas or fairy cakes to break up the day and learn at the same time.
Having said that, it's also a lot of hard work for parents who've had to become teachers too - especially those who are learning as they go. So, don't be too hard on yourselves; it's going to be really tough on you physically and emotionally, so you need to look after yourselves. Don't get caught up in worrying about whether you're good enough, or how much knowledge you have. Try to make the most of this opportunity to learn together with your children.

What qualities make the most effective teachers?
Being kind and open-minded. Appreciate that it's not simply about learning, but also the personal development of your children. Right now, children are confused, out of routine and probably a little frightened and angry. School is not just about learning and they will probably be feeling cheated and upset about the things they are missing out on; they will also be missing their friends. We need to be aware that this is likely to affect their behaviour and factor that into our responses, as they will be looking to us as parents to both vent the frustration, and also be supported and loved.

Any tips for how parents can get kids to respect them as teachers too?
You have to be clear when you are in your job as teacher, and set expectations for behaviour, just as you would in a normal boundary setting. Set up class in one part of the bedroom, kitchen or living room, and give them space to learn.

You make a valid point when you note children should be given space to learn at home. Could you elaborate on why that's necessary?
Children need the psychological space to learn too, not just a physical space. Don't crowd them. At school, they don't get the undivided attention of a teacher, as the teachers are working a classroom of students like a honeybee seeking pollen, with a stop here or there. Your children are therefore not accustomed to high scrutiny and may resent too much of your attention.

Do parents need to replicate the strict structures that kids have grown to expect at school as a way to help ease kids into these new routines?
Routine is really important to children, particularly in these uncertain and confusing times. You need to establish start times, breaks and end times. It doesn't need to be military bootcamp, but there need to be boundaries, particularly now we know this is going to be for the next few months. Set a weekly timetable, and ideally put it on the wall so everyone can see it.

How do parents deal with subject matters that are well out of their depth?
You should be getting guidance from the schools, and your role in most subjects is limited to the knowledge you have. You can, however, help them with the quality of written tasks and with the testing of ideas - just be open to learn from them!

How can they keep from getting overwhelmed?
Be realistic, this is going to be tough - teaching is hard work anyway, particularly for those who are just learning the craft, and you've just taken on this new job, with only days' notice, so give yourselves a pat on the back; and make sure you give yourself some 'me-time' and reward yourself too!
karen@khaleejtimes.com