Category: Holistic Educational Resources

Remarkable Women Who Changed History That You Should Teach Your Kids About

March 8th is marked annually as International Women’s Day (IWD). A day to celebrate women’s achievements while raising awareness about women’s equality. International Women’s Day has been celebrated globally for over a century. With it was first recognized in 1911. Educating our children about International Women’s Day is essential. We wanted to share with you some remarkable women who changed history.

Remarkable women who changed history that you should teach your kids about.

Throughout history, we have seen some extremely vibrant, unique, powerful, and intelligent women who inspire your heart. These remarkable women range from scientists, leaders, inventors, Queens, activists, and politicians. All of these had the same common goal, to make the world a better place. This is why they’re included among the remarkable women who changed history.

Maya Angelou 1928 – 2014

First, Maya Angelou

She is known as one of the most influential women in American history. Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist, singer, and civil rights activist. Maya had a difficult childhood as a black woman growing up in Stamps, Arkansas. She experienced discrimination and racial prejudices throughout her entire life. Her trauma was so deep that she was a virtual mute for many years in her childhood. However, she found her voice and used it for freedom; she worked as a civil rights activist for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Additionally, Maya was an educator and Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University.

Maya was the author of “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” an award-winning memoir. She is an inspiration and an example of how you can still rise above and use your voice for good, even throughout the darkest circumstances.

Learn more about Maya Angelou.

Anne Frank 1929 – 1945

Second, Anne Frank

Anne Frank wrote one of the most powerful, honest and saddening accounts of World War II. During the German occupation of The Netherlands, Anne Frank wrote in her diary about her family being in hiding for two years. As a result, her diary became classic war literature. When Anne turned 13, she received a red-and-white plaid journal in which she wrote her deepest thoughts. Her diary has been translated into more than 65 languages. And is also the most widely read diary of the holocaust.

When Anne was writing her deepest thoughts, she had no idea that they would one day become the most-read diary of all time. While her life was cut short, she still significantly impacted history. She truly is someone worth learning about.

Learn more about Anne Frank.

Rosa Parks
Rosa Parks 1913-2005

Third, Rosa Parks

In Montgomery, Alabama, on December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks chose to sit in the front of the bus when she boarded it. Knowing that the back of the bus was for African Americans, she decided to protest by sitting in front. Soon the bus began to fill up with white passengers, and the bus driver told Rosa Parks to move to the back. She refused. By doing so, her resistance caused one of the most significant social movements in history, the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Rosa Parks is an incredibly inspiring woman that has left a strong legacy of resistance against racial discrimination and injustice.

Learn more about Rosa Parks. 

394033 03: (FILE PHOTO) Amelia Earhart stands June 14, 1928

Fourth, Amelia Earhart

The amazing Amelia Earhart was born in 1897 and passed away in 1937. Amelia was adventurous and independent as a child. Following the First World War, she entered a program at Columbia University in New York City in 1920. Then in 1921, she purchased her first plane, a Dinner Airster, before she even had a pilot’s license. In the mid-1920, Amelia moved to Massachusetts, where she worked as a social worker at the Denison House. The Denison House was a settlement home for immigrants; while working there, she continued to work on her passion, aviation.

In April of 1928, promotors selected Amelia as the first woman to fly across The Atlantic Ocean. Besides being a fantastic pilot, she was also known for encouraging women to reject social norms. Instead, pursue the opportunities they’d like, especially in aviation.

Learn more about Amelia Earhart.

Remarkable Women Who Changed History That You Should Teach Your Kids About
Marie Curie 1867 – 1934

Fifth, Marie Curie

When Marie was a child, she was well-known for her incredible memory. She was the first woman to teach at the Sorbonne, and in 1910 her fundamental treatise on radioactivity was published. Following that, Marie Curie was awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry for the isolation of pure radium. Furthermore, she with her daughter Irene devoted themselves to developing and using X-radiography during the First World War.

She is an extreme example that you should never stop learning and always stay curious, being the first woman to have been enshrined in the Pantheon in Paris because of her achievements.

Learn more about Marie Curie.

J.K. Rowling 1965-present

Sixth, J.K. Rowling

She went from being a single mother living on benefits to an author making millions, all within just a few short years. J.K. Rowling received multiple rejections from publishers and finally secured a print run of 1,000 copies for her first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. She has sold over 400 million copies and started an entire film empire. Her story is a clear example of why you should never give up on your dreams.

Learn more about J.K. Rowling.

Malala Yousafzai 1997-present

Seventh, Malala Yousafzai

When she was only 15 years old, Malala survived an assassination attempt. When Malala was 11 years old, she gave a speech: “How dare the Taliban take away my basic right to education?” Which was published throughout Pakistan. Following this, all girls’ schools in Swat were to be shut down. In 2012 Malala was shot by a TTP gunman on the way home from school. When she recovered, she returned to her studies and activism.

Her bravery is admirable, and her determination to advocate for girls’ education is breathtaking.

Learn more about Malala.

What can we learn from these women?

While we only listed seven remarkable women who changed history, it’s important to note that there are thousands of others you can learn about—names like Edith Cowan, Viola Desmond, Queen Elizabeth I, Princess Diana, and Oprah Winfrey, to name a few.

Each woman has a unique story that inspires us and future generations to be the best they can be. Learning about them and sharing their stories is a way to honour them and keep their incredible legacies alive. Happy International Women’s Day!

Add a fun history unit to your learning journey! 

Benefits of Tutoring

Many parents understand the frustrations of watching their child struggle in school. You are just unsure how to help them, so you take a closer look at tutoring. Only then you’re faced with questions like, “How do I choose a wholesome tutoring program that will work well for my child?” “How will tutoring help?” “And what are the benefits of tutoring?”

How does tutoring help a student?

Parents choose to get tutoring for their children for a variety of reasons. Some of them are that their child is struggling in school, they aren’t challenged enough, or they need a little extra help to master a particular concept. A personalized learning experience with the gift of one-on-one attention can give your child the support they need. This help translates into better study skills, a massive increase in their knowledge and a love for core subjects. While also igniting a passion for learning.

When deciding which tutor your child needs, it’s important to consider critical factors about your child, like their age, grade, and any diagnosed or undiagnosed learning disabilities. These all can impact what type of tutor your child needs. This is why it’s essential to get familiar with the tutoring company you are looking to use and meet with the tutor beforehand to discuss.

Which children need tutoring? And what kind of program should you use?

Tutoring isn’t just for children that are struggling in school. Most children can benefit from one-on-one tutoring. While it’s true that children struggling with a learning disability or struggling with a particular subject will benefit the most from tutoring, children who are doing well in school can also greatly benefit from the fantastic boost that tutoring will provide them with.

When looking for a suitable tutoring program for your child, you should look for one that focuses on your student’s needs. A program with customizable learning solutions and one-on-one sessions is essential. If your child is struggling in school, then it’s necessary to find a program that has a supportive environment. This way, they can have the freedom and flexibility to work through those complicated concepts in a specialized course that works for them. Avoid large classes with little to no one-on-one help because a program like that will only cause your child to struggle more and feel behind.

Programs like Schoolio After-School check all the right boxes (more information below).

Benefits of tutoring:

First, one-on-one attention.

A good tutor will get to know your child while learning about their learning style and needs. The tutor will then adapt their teaching strategy to match the child’s learning style. They are acting as your child’s private teacher.

Second, improved academic performance.

Your tutor has the skills to prepare your child for necessary tests and exams. While also working with your child’s problem areas. You will see an improvement in your child’s grades and understanding of the program subjects when working with their tutor.

Third, unique and individualized learning.

Through tutoring, your child will have the opportunity to receive an individualized learning experience. This unique experience isn’t always offered in a traditional classroom. Your child’s tutor will work to customize lessons and activities to meet your child’s needs.

Fourth, it significantly improves your child’s attitude toward learning and school.

Learning will become fun for your child when your child has access to one-on-one tutoring through a unique tutoring program like Schoolio After-School. The tutor will encourage and praise your child, which will help your child not feel frustrated and overwhelmed by school.

Fifth, it can encourage self-directed learning.

Your child will benefit from learning at their own pace. When working with a tutor, your child will learn how to take the initiative with their school. While also learning how to control their own learning pace.

Sixth, improved study and work habits.

Your child will learn critical study and work habits. These crucial habits will prove to be useful throughout their life. These skills will help prepare them to succeed when working to achieve their goals. These results will be seen both inside and outside of school.

Seventh, a positive impact on self-esteem and confidence.

When a tutor provides your child with the resources and skills they need to excel in school, you will boost your child’s self-esteem and confidence.

Eighth, responsibility and independence are encouraged.

One benefit of tutoring is the ability to do schoolwork independently. With a tutor’s help, your child will soon do school work independently while noticing their personal growth.

Ninth, creating a positive workspace for ideal learning.

An environment free of distractions, with fewer or no other students, will help create that positive workspace that your child needs. One without the disruptions the classrooms are usually full of. This will help your child to focus better on their learning.

Tenth gives your child the encouragement they need while helping them feel confident enough to ask questions.

Sometimes children may feel uncomfortable when asking questions in front of their peers. A tutor will work on helping your child feel comfortable about asking questions and doing so without feeling self-conscious.

Eleventh, it teaches them how to overcome learning obstacles.

Your child’s tutor will take note of the areas your child is struggling with the most, whether math, writing, or reading. Then your child’s tutor will target the learning area they are having the most trouble with.

Twelfth, it helps them improve their behavioural and social skills.

A good tutoring program will help your child develop better communication skills. While also allowing them to form better relationships with their peers. And help them to make more behavioural and social adjustments.

Thirteenth, it helps your child manage their learning.

Tutoring helps your child become more capable in their learning. While also allowing them to be more successful when managing their schoolwork.

Fourteenth, it helps children who are bored in school.

Some children may appear to struggle in school when they are bored and under-stimulated. One of the benefits of tutoring is that it will help your child reach their full potential.

Fifteenth, it can better prepare your child for what’s ahead.

One of the other benefits of tutoring is that it will help them prepare for what’s ahead by creating crucial study skills and learning superior time management skills for more advanced grade-level plans.

Try the Schoolio Digital Platform for free! 

The Schoolio Digital Platform has 4000+ videos and interactive lessons to help your child excel in their learning. Whether you are a parent, teacher or tutor, this program is the perfect fit. 

Sign up for your free 14-day trial today! 

 

Lessons We Can Learn From Past Learning Interruptions.

The COVID-19 pandemic saw education systems worldwide close, and billions of children go without consistent learning for months. Society wished the pandemic would only last a few weeks and things would return to normal. During those first few weeks of the pandemic, no one realized how long it would last and how deep the learning loss would run as billions of children were displaced from their education. Now we are asking ourselves how to help our children catch up. Are there lessons we can learn from past learning interruptions? 

This generation of students is at risk.

According to a report published by the World Bank, UNESCO, and UNICEF: “This generation of students now risks losing $17 trillion in lifetime earnings in present value. Or about 14 percent of today’s global GDP (Gross Domestic Product), due to COVID-19 pandemic-related school closures.” More information is here.

“The loss of learning that many children are experiencing is morally unacceptable.” Said Jaime Saavedra, World Bank Global Director for Education. Parents across the world echo his sediment. Parents are concerned for their children’s educational well-being and their futures. Jamie Saavedra continued by saying: “… the potential increase of Learning Poverty might have a devastating impact on future productivity, earnings, and well-being for this generation of children and youth, their families, and the world’s economies.”

“The loss of learning that many children are experiencing is morally unacceptable.”

Jaime Saavvedra – World Bank Global Director for Education

Education disruptions aren’t unique to this generation. Are there lessons we can learn from past learning interruptions?

You don’t have to look too far back to find pinnacle moments in our history where learning was interrupted. World Wars and pandemics are just some causes of historical learning interruptions. So, what did parents, students and educators do during these educational interruptions? And are there lessons we can learn from these past learning interruptions to help our children in the future?

Education and the First World War, 1914 – 1918

The history of schools during the First World War has been heavily neglected. Until recently, several detailed written studies (monographs) were published during the last decade. These monographs have started to fill the knowledge gap about education during the First World War.

The studies focused on how schools functioned during the war. Especially in the major countries that were affected by the war. Education was disrupted during the First World War. But just how much? Schools were disrupted in many ways in the combatant nations (in Europe). The armies often reassigned the schools as hospitals, barracks, or military offices.
Additionally, many young teachers were entering the military, which caused a significant teacher shortage in countries with prominently male teachers. For countries in Central Europe, there were significant shortages of food and coal. Which then played an essential role in school closures.

Some European schools attempted to stay open, despite all the setbacks. However, the lack of teachers proved to be a significant issue. School administrators were desperate to find replacements for these teachers. So, they turned to retired teachers or teachers still in training. Schools tried to mix classes, but the crowded rooms caused disease and other issues with the children. Many schools tried half and sometimes even one-third-day sessions with little success.

In Canada and the United States:

Italy, France, Great Britain, Australia, Canada and the United States faired much better than countries in Central Europe during the First World War. One reason was 60-80 percent of teachers were female. The children and teachers in these states also didn’t suffer from severe malnutrition like those of Central Europe. However, many children could not attend school because they had to start working from a young age to support their families as their fathers were away. Comparatively, some children had to watch their younger siblings while their mothers went to find work, so the children would inevitably miss school.

The First World War played a significant role in interrupting the lives of children worldwide. These children faced school closures, educational uncertainties, absent parents, deaths of loved ones, poverty, and malnutrition. Children at this time struggled to understand why? So, the emotional strain also contributed to the loss of learning during The First World War.

The Spanish Flu Pandemic 1918 – 1920

As if children didn’t struggle enough from the terror of The First World War. They now faced a global pandemic. Following the end of The First World War in 1918, countries worldwide were thrown into a worldwide pandemic by soldiers returning from Europe with the virus. The Spanish flu resulted in school and business closures across the globe. In Ontario, Canada, the pandemic primarily affected students from prior years to university. In the fall of 1918, the Ontario School Board forced school closures across Ontario. These closures lasted from one week to over three months.

The prolonged school closures caused significant educational delays for students. In New York, schools claimed that “the school work of half the year will amount to little or nothing.”

The Great Depression

During the 1900’s many generations struggled with proper education. In 1932 The Great Depression played a significant role in halting education for many children. Budget cutbacks, fewer school hours, increased class sizes, teachers being paid less, and school closures all adversely affected children’s education. Teachers struggled to teach the children that would come to school because they were undernourished as their families were unemployed and unable to provide food.

Education during the 1930s became a luxury, one that many children were not able to obtain.

The Second World War 1939 – 1945

Children’s education suffered intensely again during the Second World War. In Britain, bombing and military requisitions caused 1 and 5 schools to close. Families were separated, homes were destroyed, parents passed away, and emotional trauma was high. Many children were evacuated, leaving their homes, families, and schools.

Elementary schools, high schools, and universities were affected in Canada and the United States. There wasn’t enough manpower to keep the economy running. Due to this, teachers and professors had to work or enlist. Causing there to be a mass shortage in teachers, professors, lessons and curriculum. The war wasn’t just academically disruptive; it was also socially disruptive. This is similar to the disruption in education and children’s social lives today.  

Looking back…

The 1900s were riddled with traumatic events that halted education many times. Despite the educational ups and downs and significant uncertainties, we can now look back and see that many of those generations’ children laid the groundwork for our lives today. 

While there were many negative impacts on education and children’s lives during these trying times in history, it’s important to note that many positive opportunities also arose from these intense times.

Some positive results in education: 
  • Women were offered many more opportunities in education and the workforce. 
  • Traditional teaching methods were rapidly changed. 
  • Physical education and health became a priority in education. 
  • Education became much more accessible, regardless of what class you might come from. 
  • History and Social Studies were revamped entirely. 
  • Systems were set up to help to return soldiers catch up on their education. 

Looking forward to the lessons we’ve learned. 

Education isn’t something that can only be obtained in a classroom. And that is one of the best lessons we can learn from history. Many of the children from these generations still excelled, despite the closures and chaos. How? Because education is all around us, it’s everywhere. And the sooner that we see that, the better.  

Children still managed to learn during those times, just like they continue to learn during these times. Yes, children will have a much more difficult time catching up without proper intervention and recovery. So, we must remind ourselves that we have the tools readily available to help our children now. 

And while it’s nice to think, ‘my child will be fine, many kids back then were!‘ it’s essential to remember that not all lessons from the past are positive ones. Looking back at the 1918 pandemic, history tells us that many children from that time lived a much more difficult life. Because, following that pandemic, there was no solid plan to help children recover from the learning losses they had experienced. 

Taking action. 

You must be your child’s advocate because no one else will be. You know your child, and you are aware of the areas in which they struggle. At the same time, we can’t talk to the successful people of the past generations and find out how they overcame these learning losses. We can assume that someone created an action plan for those children to help them get back on track. 

Don’t feel intimated; you have been creating action plans for your child since they were born, whether you realize it or not.  As your child’s parent, you have been there to help them learn and grow. This is no different. Even if your child appears to be doing just fine, they have likely missed areas of their education. This is why you must take action to help them catch up. 

While we would love for the education system to develop some action plan to help students, we know the sad reality is that many schools are simply pushing students onto the next grade even though these children need help. 

You must take action, be your child’s advocate and help them. 

Student Action Plan: 

1. Defining areas of struggle.

First, you need to identify the areas of your child’s education they are struggling with. These are the areas that you need to help them with immediately. Make a list of the academic sites they need the most help with, bearing in mind that it might not be ‘all of the math’; it could be a concept from math that they need help with. 

2. Brush up on all areas of learning. 

Even if you’ve noted that the problem area is reading and writing, they seem to be doing well with math. You should still be helping them with their math skills. Because even if they appear to be doing well with one subject area, there might be (and likely are) key concepts they have missed. This will then appear as a problem later on down the road. 

3. Keep frustrations low. 

If you are addressing an area of struggle, please remember to be patient. Your child may become frustrated with themselves and overwhelmed. You must keep the child calm during these learning times, so they can better process what they need to learn. 

4. Communicate with their teacher/school. 

Talk to their teacher! Voice your concerns, and ask for directions on how to catch them up. If the teacher cannot help, go to the principal for help. This is your child and their future. It’s okay to ‘be annoying’ when advocating for them. 

5. Be consistent. 

It’s so easy to hand your child the iPad and hope they can figure it out. Or somehow miraculously catch up on their own. But the reality is, they likely won’t. You, as the parent, must be consistent. Read with your child, and go over different concepts with them. If you cannot do this, outsource to a tutoring program. That can help your child catch up and excel. 

Parent Action Plan: 

1. Be their advocate.

You are your child’s advocate, so be that for them. I know how intimidating it can be to stand up and voice your concerns. But if you don’t do it for them, who will? 

2. Talk to your child about their concerns. 

Your child needs someone to listen to them, to hear their concerns and frustrations. Be sure to communicate with them openly. Let them talk! Don’t judge. 

3. Address your issues. 

Yes, you read that right. If you feel like this is “all your fault.” That’s a problem, and you have to address it. The pandemic was not, and is not, your fault. Your child’s learning loss is not your fault. We can’t control most circumstances like we can’t fix the past. But we can put in the work to make the future bright. You have that ability, so don’t stop working on yourself. 

4. Ask for help! 

If trying to tutor your child is just not working, or you don’t know how to help them. Ask for help! Reach out! Do some research, and talk to experts. You aren’t alone! While it’s essential to be your child’s advocate, it’s also important to realize that so many people care about this generation’s future. Find people with the same mindset and who can help where needed. 

5. Take care of yourself. 

You’ll notice that above I wrote that it’s easier to hand your child an iPad. Because, as parents, we are tired and burnt out. Taking care of everything all the time is exhausting and overwhelming. So, you must take time to work on and help yourself. Programs like The Burnout Blueprint by Daddy’s Digest can be beneficial. Take time to work on yourself and do things that you love. 

We must move forward. 

It can be easy to slip into a place of negativity and feelings of ‘they’ll never catch up.’ Don’t do that. You must remain optimistic as you look to the future. I’m sure that if you could go back and pick key successful people from each of the generations that faced intense trauma and learning losses. You would find that successful people chose to look forward, not back. They decided to learn the lessons that they could when they could. And didn’t worry so much about the things they had missed. 

Pairing a positive mindset with a carefully cultivated action plan will impact your child’s future best. So, let’s move forward together! 

Check out the Schoolio Digital Platform. 

We hope you and your student will enjoy The Schoolio Digital Platform with over 4,000+ videos, interactives, and pre-made or custom lessons to suit your student’s learning style. If you are confused about how to get started, we are happy to help.

Resources:

Schoolio Now Offers After School Tutoring.

We remain committed to bringing the best education resources to all families. While our main focus has been on homeschooling curriculum. It has become evidently clear that families involved in all sectors of education need help right now! Schoolio now offers after school tutoring, as a response to the many cries for help from families across Canada. Our tutoring program can help get your child’s education back on track.

Benefits of Schoolio After-School include:

  • Tutors who follow Canadian Curriculum Standards.
  • A Schoolio Subject Bundle of your choice included.
  • Qualified teacher, as your tutor.
  • Tutoring lessons that mirror what your child is learning in class.
  • Our tutors are trained to catch your child up on previously lessons that they may have missed.
  • We work to help your child understand concepts that they may be struggling with.
  • Our digital platform gives your child access to quizzes, certificates, and special points for engaging. These points can then be used on The Schoolio Marketplace.
  • Access to your child’s progress through the Parent Portal.
  • Students can reference Schoolio Subject Book every day. Even when their tutoring has been completed, as the book is theirs to keep.

Schoolio After-School tutors are:

  • OCT certified.
  • Experienced teachers.
  • Have a clean CPIC and Vulnerable Sector Check.
  • Are accountable. 

Schoolio After-School Pricing:

  • $49/hour with a minimum of three hours per week for four weeks.
  • Includes Schoolio Curriculum Subject Bundle of your choice.
  • Additional curriculum bundles available for a discounted price.
  • Custom pricing available for multiple months.

 

 Register for Schoolio After-School Below

Schoolio After-School is more than just tutoring:

One hour, three times a week, for four weeks. During that time we can cover anything being taught in school. All Schoolio After-School tutoring packages include a free printed and shipped subject bundle, for your child to use. The subject bundle will be printed and shipped right to your door. You as the parent, can select what subject your child needs help with. Along with what times work best for your student to learn with the tutor.

Tutors will be available Monday-Friday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm EST. As well as on Saturday afternoons. Classes are interactive, on Zoom. Tutors can walk the child through the curriculum or help them with homework. While also helping your child catch up, using The Schoolio Subject Bundle. Sessions can be recorded, if requested by the parent. This way parents have the opportunity to view how their child is doing. Along with how they are interacting with their tutor.

One-on-one tutoring can help!

Large class sizes, educational uncertainties, and school closures. These three aspects all play a part in your child’s learning experience. We know that one-on-one tutoring can help kids flourish on their learning journey. Which is why Schoolio now offers after school tutoring as an option to help your child get back on track.


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Make Learning a Priority Despite School Closures.

Many parents are once again struggling with how to make learning a priority despite school closures. Chances are that you live in a location that has either just announced school closures again, or perhaps they are leaning that way due to the steady climb of Covid-19 cases, related to the new variant of concern.

You as a parent may find yourself stuck in the frustration of wanting to keep your child safe while also wanting to be sure they are getting the education that they need at this stage in their life. I don’t think any of us thought that the pandemic would continue for so long, or that school closures and lockdowns would continue to be the method used to combat it. Yet, here we are. So the question is, how can you help your child continue to thrive with their learning, or even catch up, despite the inevitable school closures?

This is a huge topic, yet there’s not a lot of information out there about it. Doing a quick Google search doesn’t really reveal anything substantial, or helpful. Which is ironic, because education truly is key. Yet, education is one thing that has continually been placed on the back burner during the duration of the pandemic thus far.

What can we as parents and caregivers do?

As I previously wrote, none of us thought that school closures and lockdowns would continue to take place, especially not after two years since the beginning of this pandemic. It really puts things into perspective when you think of how a Kindergartener in the spring of 2020 is now in grade 2, and struggling to read. Or how a grade 10 student in March of 2020 is now facing graduation, feeling completely unprepared for university.

The pandemic has caused all of us to suffer, but no one more than our children. So many life experiences and learning opportunities have been missed. Will life ever return to normal? What even is normal anymore? Is it normal for your child to be falling behind? Will they ever catch up? What can you as a parent or caregiver do to make learning a priority despite school closures and lockdowns?

The First Step: Just Be There.

I get it, you’re frustrated and overwhelmed. For many it’s not just education that is affected, but also finances and mental well-being. Your mind is likely wandering a mile a minute, as you try to come to some settlement of peace. So, take a deep breath. Focus on what really matters. Sure, life is a crazy mess. But right now, in this very moment, are you okay? Is your family safe? Are your kids okay? Really focus on being in the moment. Focus on the laughter of your children. Talk to them, help them, because they’re also struggling with big feelings too. Make being there for your children a priority.

The Second Step: Find Ways to Ease Stress.

We don’t often realize just how stressed our children can be. The sad reality is that the pandemic, school closures, chaos and financial uncertainties has also placed stress on our kids. We like to think of them as “just going to be okay” but often times they are silently watching as their world seems to be collapsing around them.

Which brings us to an important point. And that is: Children cannot properly learn when they’re under a large amount of stress. As you probably already know, virtual learning often causes children more stress than anything else. This results in a lack of wholesome learning because of the stress that your child is under when trying to learn. Which is why finding ways to calm that stress is imperative.

Some helpful stress relieving tips include:
  1. Answer their questions honestly, and have conversations about their feelings.
  2. Let them know that you recognize that they are feeling stressed, and that it’s okay to feel this way.
  3. Contact loved ones, grandparents, family and friends. Let your child connect with them.
  4. Demonstrate how to take care of your own feelings in a healthy way.
  5. Help them with a mindfulness activity.
  6. Offer plenty of hugs and cuddles.
  7. Sign up for a Mindfulness Activity or purchase a Mindfulness workbook.
  8. Teach your child about how to manage their thoughts and feelings.

The Third Step: Create a Healthy Routine

Having a healthy routine is extremely important. Especially if you are aiming to make learning a priority despite school closures. It can be so tempting to just let everything go and continue life like you’re on holidays. While somedays that may be okay, it’s important to snap out of it sooner rather than later. Children need routine, it helps them to feel safe, while also helping them to develop important life skills.

Your kids and yourself have absolutely no control over the pandemic, or school closures. So, help your child feel like they’re in a little more control with a routine. Let them add in parts of the routine that they think are important, and be sure to honour that.

Routines aren’t just good for kids, they also have huge benefits for you as the parent or care-giver. Having a healthy routine has been proven to help parents feel more organized while simultaneously reducing stress.

You can add structure to your child’s day by adding smaller routines to your larger daily routine.

Early Morning Routine: Wake up, get dressed, eat a healthy breakfast, brush teeth, and encourage active play for a bit before school work.

Late Morning – Early Afternoon Routine: This is when your child can work on their school work, whether that be virtual learning or workbooks. For many children their school board has scheduled times of the day around virtual learning. So, their routine might revolve around those time slots.

If you have decided to homeschool during the duration of another lockdown, you can use this time to work on two core subjects like Math and Science. Reserving this time for lesson time, work time and a learning activity.

Be sure to add in lunch, and snack times! And if your child is participating in virtual learning, then make lunch and break times a big deal! Have fun with lunch time, play some word games while you both eat sandwiches. Try your best to make it as positive as possible.

Afternoon/Evening Routine: Once education time is completed for the day, encourage them to play outside, or in their room while you get a tiny break. If they just want to be with you, then try to make a new recipe together for dinner. Having fun together is one of the best remedies for stress. At the dinner table, ask your child(ren) what their favourite part of the day was, then aim to include more of that in the next day.

Bedtime Routine: Now it’s time for brushing teeth and bath time. Once that’s complete, be sure to have some snuggles and reading time with your kids. It’s so important to continue to carve out time for reading with each other as it continues to strengthen your bond.

The Fourth Step: Evaluate the Learning Solutions.

Many parents hear the words “Virtual Learning” or “Online Learning” and instantly cringe. Because this form of education is anything but wonderful for both students and teachers. If you’ve recently learned that your child has to do online learning, and you know from experience that it will be a disaster. Then take some time to evaluate this form of learning by asking yourself these questions:

  1. Is this helping my child or hurting them?
  2. Are they still learning?
  3. Is the stress from this even worth it?
  4. Are there other options available for learning?

Once you’ve answered these questions you will have a more clear indication about whether or not this form of education is actually working for you and your child. If you’re still unsure, write out a list of pros and cons. What are the pros to virtual learning, and what are the cons? If you have no other learning choices, then find out what are some ways that you can work together with your child’s school to make it more bearable.

The Fifth Step: Research Alternative Learning Solutions.

If you’ve evaluated your child’s education method, and are finding that it’s causing more stress than learning. But you are determined to make learning a priority despite school closures, then you should look for alternative methods of education for your child. You could consider a home-learning option. Remember this doesn’t have to be permanent, this can be a temporary solution until circumstances level out.

Determining what type of in-home learning curriculum will best suit your family is really important. You can learn about how to choose in-home learning curriculum here.

Staying on track with their learning is essential, which is why finding a curriculum that follows their grade level standards, and is easy to follow/teach is really important. Be sure to look for a learning solution that reflects that.

The Sixth Step: Start Learning.

It’s imperative that you remind yourself that learning is always happening. There are so many life lessons to be learned during any given day. So, please don’t stress yourself thinking that learning must look a certain way, because it often doesn’t. That is one of the reasons why virtual learning can can cause so much stress for some students. Education can’t be crammed into a box. For many, learning is hands-on. Learning through a screen with twenty other children going on and off of mute, isn’t always going to give your child the whole learning experience that they need.

Read stories with your kids, dive into a Novel Study. Bake cookies, clean the house, do art work, watch an educational show together, and play learning games! Don’t stress about how learning should look, just let it happen naturally.

Figure out what areas your child needs the most help with and make that a priority. Being sure to add in the extra areas of their education here and there. Just be sure to never overwhelm your child with information, aim to keep lessons short, simple and to the point. Dragging out a lesson just because you feel like it needs to be longer, won’t help you or your student. If your child is struggling with a particular concept, then take a break and revisit it again later.

The Seventh Step: Let Go.

Life continues to not go according to plan. Holding onto your ideas of what it should look like, will only bring you more disappointment. Embrace the way life is, even if it’s messy. Because if you continue to hold onto this idea of what you wish life looked like, it will only make it worse for you and your child. Letting go of the original plan, and working together to come up with a new, brilliant plan will be extremely beneficial for your entire family.

Whether you choose to give virtual learning another go, or you feel like you need to dive head first into homeschooling. Just know that whatever choice you make, it will be a good one for your family. Yes, sometimes you will have bad days, sometimes things won’t go as planned. And yes, you will absolutely make some mistakes. But you’re trying your very best to make learning a priority despite school closures and that is truly what matters.

Take a deep breath, focus on what really matters, and move forward.

Encourage Learning Throughout the Holidays

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but chances are you aren’t feeling like it. This time of the year can add a whole new level of exhaustion to the already over-worked homeschooling parent. Are you feeling burnt out from homeschooling, virtual learning or just parenting in general? How can you encourage learning throughout the holidays without causing burn-out for both you and your child?

The winter break is always welcomed by kids. And with the new chaos that is pandemic learning, more and more parents look forward to the winter break also. For many, it’s a time to reset and refocus. And for some, it’s also a time to catch up on concepts that maybe their child has been struggling with.

How can you encourage learning throughout the holidays without causing more exhaustion for both you and your child?

Step 1:

Identify what it is that your child should be learning during the holidays. Are they struggling with Math? Reading? Or writing? Which area of their education is in need of the most TLC? There are so many amazing ways to mix fun, creativity and learning together during this time of year so don’t get stressed out if they’re struggling in more than one area.

Step 2:

Identify your child’s interests, hobbies and what they just love to do. Do they love art? Playing games? Making snowmen? If you aren’t sure, spend a little time with them throughout the day. Or just ask them!

I’ve identified what they need to be learning and what their common interests are. So, now what?

Now we need to find fun ways to incorporate learning into their hobbies. It’s actually so much easier than you’d think it is. We can often get so caught up in this idea that learning must look a certain way for it to be effective. But that logic is completely flawed.

Fun Ways to Learn Through the Holidays:

Some kids love reading and writing, so if you offer them a workbook during the holidays they will dive right into it. Other kids feel that you encouraging them to learn during the holidays is a form of punishment. Each child is uniquely different, and as such, each child will have their own unique learning style. Therefore it can be a lot more difficult to find fun ways for your child to learn with. And perhaps your idea of ‘fun learning’ is vastly different from theirs, so how can you encourage learning throughout the holidays while catering to their unique learning style?

First Let’s Figure Out Your Child’s Learning Style:

There are so many different types of learning styles so we are going to just focus on the four most common for this blog.

Visual Learners

A Visual Learner is one who learns better by observing, looking at pictures or diagrams. Additionally, a visual learner will often have an easier time remembering what they saw or read vs. what they heard. A visual learner will usually be the one attempting to take notes during class because it helps them focus. They also prefer to work alone, instead of in groups of people. And they usually need quiet time to be able to focus on new concepts.

Some additional characteristics of the visual learner: They often have an easier time remembering faces, but not names. Locations, but not street names. And they often seem to be daydreaming. A visual learner will usually love colours, and need colours in their notes to help them remember and focus. If they’re bored you’ll see them doodling, writing, scribbling or making random lists. Usually with colours and fun designs

How can we help our visual learners during the holidays?

Give them plenty of opportunities to doodle, draw and write. Handing a visual learner a workbook is usually not going to be hugely beneficial for quick and effective learning. Unless that workbook is filled with fun pictures, graphs, and colours. When it comes to visual learners, it’s usually not as easy as just picking up a grade workbook at Costco during the holidays.

When it comes to your visual learner, you will need to get creative.

  1. You could read them a novel each day, like one of Schoolio’s unique Novel Studies. While you read to them, encourage them to doodle what it looks like in their mind. Encourage them to illustrate the story on paper or write down key points that they found interesting.
Learn more about The Schoolio Novel Studies: https://schoolio.io/mini-units/

2. Be sure to use bright colours whenever possible. If you are asking your child to look at a page of math questions, try having them highlight each question with their favourite holiday colours first.

3. Make the key points of what you want your child to learn stand out! Make it brighter and bolder than the rest of the content that is on a page.

4. Give them time to process what you are trying to help them learn and understand. Don’t expect them to just understand right away. Because Visual Learners often need time to think about what they learned for the concept to really stick.

Auditory Learners

Sounds matter when it comes to auditory learners. That’s because auditory learners usually learn so much better when the subject of their learning is reinforced by sounds. These are the learners that would rather listen to someones lecture, a story, or an audio book. They sometimes also like to read out loud to themselves because it helps them focus and understand better. Auditory Learners are usually really good at explaining things to others and they will be the ones to repeat what the teacher says until the concept sticks in their mind.

If your auditory learner needs to work on some math problems but is having a hard time focusing on the book. You could either try letting them be completely alone to complete it. Or, turning on some unique holiday music for background noise. When you’ve taught them an interesting fact, ask them to repeat that concept to you with their eyes closed. Or ask them to repeat what you said in their own words. Let your auditory learners have learning partners. Whether in person, or on zoom. Having someone to talk about concepts with can help auditory learners understand and remember.

Kinaesthetic Leaners

Our Kinaesthetic learners (sometimes called Tactile learners) are the ones that learn best through experiences or doing things. They like to touch and feel, and to get involved, or to act things out. Kinaesthetic learners usually have to get involved in order to understand. And they are often the ones that just can’t sit still which often makes them really good at sports and dancing!

The Kinaesthetic learners need to take more breaks than most other types of learners. If you’re trying to read them a neat story about history, you could have them act it out. Mixing movement with short and simple lessons is an excellent way to encourage learning throughout the holidays for Kinaesthetic learners.

Reading and Writing Learners

This category is pretty self-explanatory. If you have a reading and writing learner, you’ll know. They are the ones that learn the very best through written words. These learners will express themselves best through reading books, writing, and diaries. They often appear to have a hunger for learning, always looking things up and searching for new books to read.

For this learner, you can absolutely encourage them to dive into some novel studies throughout the holidays. Encourage them to write stories about the holidays, and what their favourite part of this time of the year is. Be sure to have plenty of interesting books, and writing materials available for them to utilize throughout the holidays.

What type of learner do you have?

There’s a huge chance that your learner will fall into one or more category. As some of these categories do overlap in different areas of learning. If you’re having trouble identifying which learning category your child falls into. Try taking out and pen and a paper and write down the different characteristics of each learning category. Then circle the categories that are best suited to your child.

If you have more than one child you will likely find that your children are incredibly different in so many ways, including their learning styles. Determining which learning style works best for each of your children, and then finding ways to bridge their learning together will help you not get so stressed and burnt out trying to accommodate everyone.

Using their unique learning styles to encourage learning throughout the holidays.

Now this is the fun part. When you get to find unique ways to help your children learn. I always find it so funny how we get caught up in this idea that learning must only come from workbooks and planned out lessons. When in all actuality, learning is all around us, all the time.

For your hands on learner, they can gain expertise by helping you with the holiday baking. You can encourage them to draw bright pictures for family and friends. Alternatively, for your auditory learner you can press play on some unique stories. Once they’ve completed listening, you can ask them to tell you about it in their own words. For the Kinaesthetic learner, you can get them outside in the snow, shovelling and having fun. Mixing in a neat verbal science lesson while they rummage through the snow. And for your reading and writing learner you can get them to make beautiful Christmas cards, and keep the novels and neat lessons stocked up for them to jump into when they start to get bored.

For every unique learner, there is more than one unique learning activity that you can utilize to encourage learning throughout the holidays. Just remember not to get caught up in the idea that learning must look a certain way, because it doesn’t. And that applies to holiday learning and learning in general.

Keep learning holiday themed to gain interest!

It doesn’t matter which type of learner you have. Most kids really enjoy the holiday theme. Therefore, incorporating peaceful, fun, and holiday themed, mini lessons into your holiday plans has proven to be beneficial for our kids. Even if they aren’t necessarily ‘behind’ or in need of extra practice, it will benefit your learner to brush up on different concepts and take on some light learning through the holiday season.

Which is why the Schoolio Marketplace is the ideal place to land when searching for interest led learning for our kids.

Some really unique lessons that your kids will love this time of year:

The Schoolio Celebrations Around the World Special Interest Unit https://schoolio.io/product/holidays/

Teaching your kids about celebrations had around the world is a fun way to pique interest, and help them learn some amazing new facts. With this Special Interest Unit your child will have the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal People’s Winter Solstice, Lunar New Year, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Diwali and Christmas. There’s something for every learning style, from writing activities, stories, to baking and crafts. Adding this to your holiday learning plan, will prove to be beneficial.

“The New Year” Special Interest Unit by Schoolio https://schoolio.io/product/new-year-mini-unit/

Another fun way to encourage learning throughout the holidays is to jump into The New Year Special Interest Unit. Your child will study Math, Science, Language and Social Studies through fun lessons like ‘The History of New Year Celebrations’, ‘Making Resolutions’, ‘Counting Down to the New Year’ and more. Be sure to pick up your copy!

Remember, encouraging learning through the holidays doesn’t have to be holiday themed though.

If your child has no interest in holiday themed learning, then try incorporating some other fun, learning activities. Like lessons about trees and forests, pirates, or investigations. There’s so many neat lessons over at the Schoolio Marketplace. So, go ahead and check it out: https://schoolio.io/mini-units/

Just remember not to stress, instead have fun and happy holidays!

For more information on how to help unique learners:

DIY Parent Tutoring

Let’s Talk About: DIY Parent Tutoring with Lindsey Casselman.

Did your child receive a less than stellar report card? It’s totally normal to feel stressed and worried about your child’s grades. As parents we want our children to be successful with their education but also to enjoy it. If your child’s report card isn’t reflecting how great they are, just remember that for two years now, the Covid-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down.

Due to two years of scrambled education and uncertainties your child’s education has likely suffered along with everything else. So, please try not to worry too much. In no time this slight setback will be handled, fixed up and your child will be right back on track.

Before you consider DIY Parent Tutoring, First ask yourself these questions:

Question 1: Do We Need a Tutor?

Tutors can be so expensive, and because of that fact it’s not always an available option for some. Whether hiring a private one-on-one tutor, or going through a learning centre, the costs can be almost as much as a car payment. This expense added to your monthly expenses can really break the bank. So, don’t worry, because Schoolio wants to bring some equality to the world of tutoring by making DIY parent tutoring a feasible option. Yes, that’s right! DIY mean you can Do-It-Yourself and tutor your own child!

Question 2: Am I Qualified to Tutor My Own Child?

Of course, you are! Firstly, there are absolutely no rules about qualifications needed to tutor. In fact, most private tutors and learning centres use university students as their tutors, which no teaching backgrounds.

Secondly, it’s really important to remember that you’ve been teaching your child since the day they were born. And you can teach them anything that you want them to know.

Thirdly, there are literally millions of parents that are successfully homeschooling children over the world. And, studies show that not only are these children getting a quality education, but it turns out the one-on-one time and the personal care of learning from a parent makes learning even easier for most children.

Question 3: Does DIY Parent Tutoring Work if I Suck at Math?

You don’t suck at math! No one does! Maybe you’ve just forgotten the things that you learned in school. That doesn’t mean that you’re terrible. If you graduated from Grade 8, then you know enough to teach your 8th grader, and certainly enough to teach any grade lower than that! Refreshing your memory and learning together with your child is a remarkable experience.

You have the opportunity to model to your child the skill of not getting frustrated, and instead persevering. Also you can model to them how to find the answers to their questions by finding solutions together as a team. You can ditch the school model of an all-knowing leader, lecturing information into an empty-vessel student.

Instead you can work as a team to learn and discover together. You’ll be so surprised at how quickly that grade eight math comes back to your memory after the refreshing experience of tutoring your child.

Question 4: How Do I Get Started?

Getting started is often the hardest part, but once you’re rolling with it, it will get easier and easier.

First, decide what type of tutoring you want to do: Most people will fall into one of two categories.

  1. I want to tutor my child in topics that interest them, to help re-ignite their love of learning while exercising their brains.
  2. I want to tutor my child in specific areas that they are struggling with in school to help them improve their understanding and bring up their grades.

Most home tutors are in category 2. So, if you’re in category one, you should check out the Schoolio Marketplace, where we have affordable mini units on all sorts of topics. There’s bound to be something there that will spark an interest in your learner. Check out the Schoolio Marketplace: https://schoolio.io/mini-units/

If you’re in category 2, the first thing you need to do is determine which subjects your child is struggling with the most. You probably already have a good idea, either from their report card or helping them with their homework. If you are still unsure, a really great place to start is to contact your child’s teacher and ask them!

Be sure to get specific:

If they’re struggling in Math, what area of Math are they struggling with? Math is most frequently broken into 4-5 strands, such as Numeracy, Algebra, Geometry, (often called Spatial Sense), Data Management and Probability, Money and Finance and even Coding. All of these areas of Math are often included in a lot of school math programs. (Note: Coding is often covered in Algebra.)

The same goes for Science. Is your child struggling in all areas of Science? Or just some? There will likely be Life Sciences, Chemistry, Each and Space Sciences and so on. When you’re talking to your child’s teacher, also find out what grade level they would recommend you start tutoring at. Some kids are working within their grade level, they just need a little extra practice to fully master the concepts.

While other kids can really benefit, especially after the turmoil of covid years, from going back a grade or two and building strong foundations in the concepts. Doing that before building to their current grade level. Remember, your child’s teacher should be able to guide and advise you with this.

Second, get a good program to help you be the best DIY Parent Tutor.

Most homeschoolers know that they key to a successful homeschool experience is finding the right tools and materials. Finding a good fit for your learner will go a long way. A home education program will be extremely beneficial in that is will easily help you tutor your child. Schoolio is one of the only education (homeschool) companies that offers a unitized system for purchasing curriculum.

This means if your child is great at Algebra, but struggling with Geometry, you can choose to purchase only Geometry. Then you won’t have to pay the cost of a full year program. Instead you can purchase the units of study that you need to help your child with the areas that they are struggling with the most.


How Do I Start Homeschooling In Canada?

Homeschooling has become an extremely popular alternative to traditional education in the last 10 years. There’s no doubt that when homeschooling is done correctly, it can be an incredible experience for homeschoolers.  So, how can you start homeschooling? What legal aspects do you need to be aware of? Is there some way to ensure that you will be successful at homeschooling your kids? We have the answer to your ‘How do I homeschool?’ question!

Wanting to homeschool, but feeling overwhelmed is totally normal. Unfortunately, it’s human nature to second guess our decisions. Especially when it comes to our kids, their futures and well-being. Let me assure you, if you want to homeschool, you have excellent resources, and have the ability to make it a successful experience for your family. Then, there’s no reason to worry.

 

We’ve heard your questions of ‘How do I homeschool?’ and broken it down into 10 simple steps to get you started.

 

Step 1: Shift your mindset about learning schedules.

Homeschooling doesn’t look like traditional education, because it isn’t traditional education. So often new homeschoolers think that they need to make their homeschool day look exactly like a traditional school day. Thinking that your child needs to be working on school work all day, is false. We forget that in traditional school, kids have recess, lunch, activity time, and spend so much time waiting for the class to settle so the teaching can begin. Your homeschool day doesn’t have to look like that. Most homeschoolers only spend 2-3 hours on workbooks a day. The rest of their education is hands on, life learning. That doesn’t mean that they are missing out. Because, they aren’t! They are getting the same amount of educational learning as children in traditional school. It’s truly mind blowing how one-on-one teaching can take the hours upon hours out of learning.

Also, it should be noted that homeschooling doesn’t have to happen at the same time as traditional school. Some homeschool families find that their learning vibe is better in the evening, on weekends, or even in the summer. Your schedule, is yours. You and only you know how your children learn, and when the best time of the day is for them and you to reach maximum potential for learning. Don’t be bogged down by this idea that your child must start workbooks at 9am and finish by 3:30pm.

 

Step 2: Find out the legal aspects of homeschooling in your province/state.

Every province and state have different expectations for homeschooling standards. It’s best to check and make sure you following local guidelines. Don’t let that stress you out though, even following legal standards, you will still have so much flexibility for your child’s curriculum, and learning schedule. We have a few blogs on some different province guidelines.

Click here for Saskatchewan 

Click here for Alberta 

Click here for British Columbia 

Click here for Manitoba 

Click here for Ontario

 

Step 3: Chat with experienced homeschoolers.

Chances are you already know a homeschool mom. And, you must know that most homeschool moms are eager to share how to be successful with homeschooling. Why? Because it’s working so well for their family, they want everyone to experience the freedom and peace that comes with home-learning. Find a local homeschool group in your area, or search out some awesome homeschool groups online. There are so many incredible sources.

 Step 4: Choose your homeschooling style

When it comes to home education, there are so many different styles. The Classical Method, The Charlotte Mason Method, Montessori Method, Unschooling, School-at-home, Unit Studies, Eclectic Education, and more. What style suits your family best? Do some research and find out. Here’s a list of all the different methods of homeschooling, their benefits and drawbacks. So you can make an educated decision.

Click here to learn about different homeschool styles.

 

Step 5: Choose your curriculum

There are so many different styles of homeschooling. First, figure out which works best for you and your family. Once you’ve determined your style. Select a curriculum that goes along with your style and also the standards that you want for your children’s education. There are so many options out there, so be sure to do your research and find what is very best for your family.

Click here to learn about how to choose the best curriculum. 

 

Step 6: Get familiar with excellent homeschool teaching strategies.

There are so many books out there, ask around and find out what some of your homeschool friends are into. Search out homeschooling podcasts for tips, and tricks, to make your homeschool teaching career successful.

 

Step 7: Set up social opportunities for your children.

The last thing we want is for you to feel overwhelmed or alone. That’s why Step 3 is so important. When you chat with other homeschool parents, you will have the opportunity to set up homeschool playdates, co-ops, sports, arts, and more. These activities will give your child and you a chance to chat with other like-minded people and help your children make lifelong friendships.

 

Step 8: Set learning goals with your kids.

It’s important for you to know what you want from the homeschool year. But what do your kids want? What do they want to learn? How do they want to learn? Ask them! Let them get involved in homeschool planning for the year. When you get your kids involved in these decisions it will help them gain interest.

 

Step 9: Get Familiar with your curriculum.

Once your curriculum arrives, unbox it. Check it out. Let your kids see the new books, and make a plan for what you will need for the first few units of their workbooks. (If that’s the style you choose). Do you need a ruler? Pencils? Paper? Make sure to have it all on hand for each lesson.

 

Step 10: Begin homeschooling, and have fun!

Please don’t stress yourself out with this idea that you need to be perfect in order for your children to learn. You are doing an amazing job. So, dive into it! And enjoy it! Don’t worry about what your neighbours think or say, or how your parents think it’s crazy that you are keeping them home to learn. Keep your mind on the truth. You are doing an awesome job! And your children are going to be just fine!