Virtual work, virtual groceries; everything has turned virtual since the pandemic of 2020. People can get all their work done without having to leave the comfort of their homes.
It also means that our children have to adapt to a whole new educational system; virtual learning. While virtual learning offers the feasibility of learning at home, it comes with numerous issues too. One of the commonly-experienced issues is virtual learning anxiety.
Not turning off the camera, constantly staying on mute, and missing out on classes. These are some of the red signs that your child is experiencing virtual learning anxiety. Continue reading to learn how exactly you can help your child in overcoming this mentally-exhausting anxiety type.
Stay Calm
Undeniably, it is difficult to remain calm when your child wails and screams. But, as a parent, you must remember that your child did not choose the situation, and it’s certainly not his fault if he is struggling with it.
Instead of reacting, the best possible thing you can do to help your child is to maintain your calm. Address your child’s concern in a polite manner. Never shout or scold in such scenarios as it can make them feel uncared for or neglected.
Also, never invalidate a child’s feelings by making things appear okay. Experts and specialists term this behavior as toxic positivity when you try to make things seem good when they are not.
When your child is feeling upset and angry, let him express it healthily. Maintain your calm and talk to him about the issue. Sometimes, it's okay not to be okay.
If you find remaining calm a challenge, take a few deep breaths or walk out of the room for some time (not too long!). This way you are also setting a good example for your child, i.e., staying calm instead of getting moved away with your emotions in stressful situations.
Find the Cause
Virtual Learning possesses a diversity of factors that can trigger anxiety in your child. For example, the child may feel anxious because of the background or by his appearance. The child may as well get anxious seeing his image on the screen.
Sometimes, kids get upset and frustrated over problems like missing the assignment deadline due to a poor internet connection. Imagine completing hundreds of words beforehand only to find the Internet is not working at the last moment. It sure can be stressful!
As a parent, you should make efforts towards finding the reason behind anxiety. Not only will it help in better understanding your child, but also in resolving the problem.
Try to Resolve the Issue
Once you have understood the anxiety-causing factor, it is time to work on eliminating it tactfully.
In case your child feels anxious due to background or room, try to change things around. Ask your child to take classes in a place where they feel comfortable. Or, if your budget allows, get your child’s study place a makeover.
Get the walls painted to a color of his liking, replace the study table, add a comfortable chair, and maybe new gadgets like a pen mouse!
For self-conscious concerns, you can assist the kid by helping him dress up for the class early so that he gets the time to be ready properly. You can also help by talking things out. Give your child positive affirmations; teach them to love themselves!
To prevent mishaps, you can plan things for your child. Create a schedule and paste it somewhere he can see it easily. Or, perhaps, set alarms for different classes. Ensure there is a proper Internet connection at your home for a smooth learning experience. Also, teach your kid some file backup ways and saving techniques on the desktop so that he knows what to do instead of panicking.
Final Thoughts
There is no denying that virtual learning can be difficult for kids. Pandemic has done no good to them than us. It is just like adjusting to working from home policies.
In such stressful times, it is your responsibility to help your child in coping up with the changes. Instead of constantly questioning the deteriorating grades, sit down with him and figure out what’s wrong. Lend them the helping hand they need!
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