"I don't even know what they go over in class. My daughter kicks me out as soon as the class starts. She is probably embarrassed of me," shared the mother of our student. Yes, some children are uncomfortable practicing in the presence of their parents. After all, they perceive the teacher differently from their mom. In our online school there are two formats of training - group and individual lessons. And, if it's clear that parents stay outside the classroom, what about online classes? Let's discuss whether parents need to be present at such lessons. And also how it can affect the learning process of the child.
When it is appropriate for parents to observe a lesson
- If a child is slow to make contact with new people, the presence of parents in the classroom can help the child to relax. In addition, adults can help the child not to be confused when the child does not know the answer to a question. Parents can support the child and help him/her overcome his/her fears.
- Parents are welcome to stay in the room if they wish to check the quality of the lesson, especially in the first lessons. To make sure the teacher is competent, observe his/her speech and ability to keep the child's interest.
- By occasionally attending the lessons, parents can get an idea of how the child is learning. And after the lessons, they can offer help if their child has difficulties. They can also discuss with the teacher how to work through difficult areas so that more attention can be paid to them.
- If there may be technical problems, such as unstable internet. A pre-school child may be confused or simply not tell their parents that the lesson has been interrupted. In this case, you should make sure that the technology is OK.
In which cases parents should walk away
- Some children may feel uncomfortable in the presence of a parent. They may be distracted by the adult and this will make it difficult for them to concentrate on the activity.
- The child can tell the teacher "children's secrets"if they have established trust. Children do not always want their parents to hear what they are saying in class. In addition, this can cause awkwardness and discomfort for everyone involved in the process
- Parental presence in the classroom can limit a child's autonomy and prevent them from developing self-discipline and responsibility skills.
What can be recommended
Before starting the class, discuss with your child what he or she would prefer. He or she may ask you to be present at the first sessions to get used to the teacher. Then, as they establish contact, you can go into another room, leaving the door open. And, after making sure that the child no longer needs help, leave them alone with the teacher. By taking the child's views and needs into account, you can make the learning process as effective and comfortable as possible.
As a reminder, Palme School classes are online and parents make their own decisions about attendance. We do Russian language and other subjects in Russian with children from 4 to 14 years old. It is FREE to try any of the classes. And, of course, the introductory lesson is always with the parent.
To sign up for our classes, please leave a request in the form below. Our manager will contact you to confirm the date and time of the introductory lesson.
