Be Your Child's Learning Coach

With your child’s enrollment in a virtual high school such as The American Academy, you, as the parent, will need to wear another hat – learning coach. Even as your child grows and matures, and hopefully, becomes responsible for his own learning, your presence will make a huge difference in ensuring that work is done and that your child has what he needs to succeed as a virtual high school student.

Of course, with your busy schedule (especially if you’re a working parent), this will add more things on your to-do list. But your patient supervision and motivation of your child will rake in dividends as you finally see him earning his high school diploma online.

Here are some of the things you can do to help your child:

• Establish a “Learning Center”. Be sure that your child has a specified place where he can work minus any distractions. This learning center should be outfitted with a computer or laptop and a decent internet connection, as well as other equipment (printer, webcam, etc.). It should also be organized so that your child can easily find school supplies and reading materials.
• Provide structure to your child’s day. If your child knows what to expect during his school day, it will help him become more mentally and psychologically prepared for the work at hand. Study the syllabi provided by your online high school program and determine the amount of work that needs to be done. Set up a schedule for the school term.
• Help your child learn online high school skills. This includes handling his time wisely, as well as being familiar with the computer and the learning programs.
• Prevent online distractions. You can add software to your child’s computer that prevents him from accessing game and social networking sites during “school” hours. You can provide blocks of times that are designated as his time to use the computer for purposes other than his online high school education.
• Keep track of your child’s performance. Ask, “How much has your child done so far? How much does he still need to finish?” Be sure that your child turns in assignments and projects on time.
• Set time for fun and socializing. Even with the everyday routine of your child’s school days, try to inject some time for other learning opportunities. This can come in the form of out of town trips (where you can provide opportunities for the child to learn about another culture through their cuisine, landmarks and language), trips to the local library or museum and so on. You can also add recreational activities as well as other chances for learning.
• Enroll them in classes that hold their interest. Observe your child and try to discern their natural gifts, as well as what interests them. This can be classes in karate, in ballet or playing the piano. Involve them in community activities as well. This can also be a time for learning – as well as being able to work and related with other people.
• Work with your child’s teachers. The American Academy has online teachers that can prove to be a very helpful resource for your child, especially if he’s struggling with a particular subject. You can contact these online teachers to keep track of your child’s progress, as well as what you, as a parent, can do to help with a certain project or subject.

These are just some things you can do as your child’s learning coach. Don’t forget to have fun with your child as you enjoy watching him learn and eventually, earn his high school diploma.