What was your reaction when you first heard that classes will reopen despite the pandemic?

If you were among the parents who have already expressed their opposition and frustrations about the distance learning that will take effect this school year, your reaction is quite normal.

In fact, thousands of parents, students, and groups tried to “cancel” the idea and petitioned for #AcademicFreeze, furthering the digital divide.

However, it looks like there is no turning back. Schooling will push through even outside the typical face-to-face, classroom scenario.

To help ease the doubts and worries you may have, Beyond Small Talk host Felichi Buizon is here to help you list down the blessings and benefits that come with home-based learning.

Benefit #1: Health preservation 

No parent would want their child’s health to be compromised.

Now that classes will be done in your household, your child can stay safe at home and stay away from higher exposure to the virus. If your child has other health conditions, with home-based learning, you can monitor them and watch over them better.

Benefit #2: Opportunity to strengthen the family 

Home-based learning gives you more time to be with your loved ones, especially if your family is one of those who haven’t spent time together because you are too caught up with life’s busyness.  

“This is a time that we can get to know our children better and they can get to know us better. And why is this needed? Experts say that children learn more when they are in good terms with their teacher. With terror teachers, children’s minds tend to shut down. No learning takes place,” says Felichi.

Instead of scolding or mere lecturing your child, have a caring conversation with them. Ask them how they are doing because they, too, are affected by the pandemic. They, too, lost their connection with friends, teachers, and their normal way of life.

Benefit #3: Motivated learning 

Because your child’s learning takes place near you, you now have the chance to encourage them and develop their love for learning.

To Felichi, excitement is contagious, that is why you can inspire your child to learn by joining them and showing that you are excited for them. 

You don’t need to take over their tasks. Allow them to be independent in completing their assignments. However, you can motivate them to adhere to their class routine and reassure them that you always got their back when needed. In return, you may get a deeper appreciation of your child’s learning experiences.

Benefit #4: Extra time to enjoy their hobbies 

Piano, guitar, or dance lessons?

Home-based learning buys your child extra time so they can pursue their other interests and hobbies. Felichi, who is also a homeschooling parent, suggests that you allow your child to enjoy and explore other things that could expand their skills.

“If you have pre-schoolers, let them play! Experts say that playing is important for their growth. If your child likes to dance or play musical instruments, you can help them look for online tutorials and lessons,” Felichi said.

It might take time before you and your child could fully adjust to home-based learning. But what good would it bring if you focus on what’s lacking or missing?

Allow yourself and your child to focus on the good things that you have at hand. Allow yourself to be grateful, prayerful, and faithful – in lack and in abundance.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

Let us know what you think about these benefits, and feel free to add more!

Join the online discussion and don’t miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk as Felichi talks more about how you can support your child’s home-based learning. Catch the new webisode on October 3, 2020, at 7:00 PM on The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.