Creating a schedule and routines

Children (and adults!) of all ages need structure and routine.  In order to help keep cabin fever at bay, consider creating a schedule for your children while at home during the school closure.  A schedule should be similar every day and provide time for both structured and unstructured activities.  Every week day, engage your child in academic activities, physical activity, time to be creative, as well as time for play and for chores!  See below for ideas on how you might build a daily schedule:
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1. Morning physical activity: Go for a walk (keeping social distance) or ride a bike.  If the weather isn't great, do some yoga or have a dance party in the living room!
2. Morning academics: At least some of the academic time should be screen free.  Make use of the work sent home by teachers, but also read books.  Encourage your child to keep a journal during this time. 
3. Free play: Although consistent routines help children know what to expect and help with behavior, children should all have some unstructured time in their day to choose their own activities, explore interests, and play imaginative games. 
4. Lunch: Make sure to make use of our free meals for children!
5. Chore time:  During uncertain and stressful times, it helps for children to feel proactive and positively contribute to their family/household.  Children of all ages can complete some kind of chores, whether it is helping to wash dishes, putting away their toys, or doing some cleaning!  Take advantage! 
6. Afternoon academics:  There are tons of quality and free resources online for students of all ages and in all contents.  Check this blog, our Facebook page, and our family email newsletter for links to different online activities for students. 
7. Creative time:  Get out the crayons, paper, and let your child express themselves!  Items that would normally head to the recyclable bin can become art!  Check back for easy (and mostly mess free) activities you can do at home. 
8. Afternoon physical activity:  Don't forget to schedule lots of time for your children to stretch, play, and let off some of that extra energy!  We will provide links to sites that provide guided physical activities.  However, getting outside is good for the body and mind!  Fresh air, room to move, and sunshine will help the whole family!

Here is a link to sample schedules put together by Khan Academy - a free online learning resource you can use at home!