The government’s decision to suspend school operations as part of the measures to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus has been a challenge for parents in Rwanda, leaving many with no option but home-schooling. Speaking to The New Times, Director General of Rwanda Education Board (REB), Irénée Ndayambaje, said that they are working with UNICEF and other partners to develop radio and TV programmes for vulnerable students who cannot access e-learning platforms due lack of internet, smartphones and computers. “Children who are not able to access other e-learning platforms, such as YouTube and websites, can now access the lessons on radio and TV during the lockdown. The lessons are accessed by nursery, primary and secondary schools,” he said. Commenting on the programme, UNICEF’s country representative, Julianna Lindsey, said that while TV and radio school programmes may not be perfect, they can make a difference. “They keep the children’s minds engaged. I would recommend to parents to tune in and then ask the children what they learnt, if they didn’t understand and how best they can help, so that we can continue the learning throughout the day as long as possible,” she said. As a parent and a development specialist, Julian Ingabire Kayibanda says that although these measures and efforts are highly commendable and necessary, there are reasons to be concerned. “Most vulnerable students have fewer opportunities for learning at home, and their time out of school may present economic burdens for parents who may face challenges finding prolonged childcare, or even adequate food in the absence of school meals,” she says. Here is how to help your child to transition from school to home-schooling. Talk to your child Most children associate being at home with school holidays and an opportunity to spend time playing or with friends. It’s important to explain what home-schooling is, why it’s happening and what is expected from them. This will help them to understand what to expect and why it is important. Involve them in decision making Creating a new home-schooling routine can be challenging, but involving your child in some of the decisions will help them feel a little more in control and reduce on the confusion and tension. For example, you could ask them how they would want to spend their break time and what snack they prefer. Create a ‘classroom’ environment Create a routine and specific home study area where they, for example, cannot glance at the TV. Try to remove as many distractions as possible and make sure it’s a comfortable spot. It’s a good idea to set up the area in the morning and then put it away once the school day is finished to clearly mark when they’re ‘at home’ and when they’re ‘at school’. Talk to other parents You may have to find your own support system and the best way to do this, is by coordinating with other parents and comparing notes. Try experimenting All children are different. While some kids will easily adjust to the new status-quo, others will find it difficult to concentrate at home, be away from their friends, or learn in a new format. Experimenting to find the right thing for your child is going to be essential to making this work.
