Supporting Students Through Online Learning

We’ve all witnessed the spectacular responses of schools lately in moving instruction and learning online and working with their students to get the access they need. Even still, online learning comes with many challenges and students need the support of their educators, their loved ones and their communities.

• Stay connected with young people and remind them that you’re there for them. School can be a special place of guidance, counsel and mentoring for students and access to this looks a lot different virtually. Be available for the young people in your life and let them know that, even though things are different right now, you’re still invested in them.
• Know that young people may struggle with feelings of isolation. This might come off as irritability and frustration, so be patient with them and help them navigate these emotions and this new reality. Encourage physical activity and connecting virtually with loved ones and friends. 
• Be aware of cyberbullying and a potential increase of it as young people spend more time online. To help combat this, educators and adults can set expectations for respectful behavior and promote positive interaction. Encourage young people to talk to you if they hear or see something that feels hurtful or harmful.

For more information about how to support students in online learning and interactions, check out this resource from the Cyberbullying Research Center.