Quiet Working Time (for both of you)

If you are working from home right now, this is an excellent opportunity to model and build a work ethic with your child.  You can't entertain them all the time, and long hours of screen time are not healthy.  What can you do?

1.  Set up a quiet task for you child to work at the table beside you.

• playdough, colouring, quiet building materials, a feltboard, etc.
• make a journal for your child to record thoughts, ideas, pictures, etc.  Kindergarten and Grade 1 students can make one page for each letter of the alphabet, drawing pictures and writing words that start with that letter. If they are able, they can write a sentence or two about their pictures.  An alternative to drawing (for those who get frustrated) is to cut out magazine pictures and glue them in.  Older children will probably have used journals at school, and have many ideas about making their own, personal journal.  When you hear, "I'm bored!" or "I don't know what to do!", suggest writing about it in their journal.

2.  Set a timer (that your child can see) so you both know when it's break time.  Break time can include a healthy snack and drink and some physical movement/exercise time before you both get back to your work.

3.  Have a glass of water for each of you to sip on while you work.  Water actually helps your brain to function at increased capacity!