Anoop Singh Bishnoi on COVID-19 School Closures

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Education Systems are quite complex, and as we collectively enter the third year of this pandemic, it would not be wrong to say that education is in a worldwide crisis.

Due to the de-equalizing effects of COVID-19, inequities are set to take new forms and at the same time growing poverty alongside unemployment will further widen the existing educational gaps. In addition to learning loss, school closures have also impacted the mental health of millions of children – separation from friends and lack of outdoor activities have taken a toll on their social upbringing and physical development and capabilities.

While the urgency of this moment is to tackle these disruptions, just reopening schools will not be enough. Children need intensive support more than ever. Here’s what Anoop Singh Bishnoi, an entrepreneur and an advocate of educational equity, thinks we as parents and caregivers can do for our children.

Plan a routine together. Use everyday activities as learning opportunities. Watching educational videos or shows together, doing house chores to teach them about responsibility, or just having open conversations. Encourage your child to express their feelings, give them your full attention and create a safe environment for them. Use this time at home to teach them and make them aware of things they wouldn't usually learn at schools.

 

Discuss the Internet with your child. Increased online access can heighten risks for children's safety and privacy and can negatively impact their overall development. So it’s important to tell your child about its advantages as well as disadvantages, while highlighting appropriate behavior in terms of video calls and online classes.

 

Stay in touch with your child’s educational facility and teachers. Homeschooling can have its own challenges, parent groups and community groups can be a good way to support each other. However keep in mind not to overuse such platforms yourself.

Although the internet has its drawbacks, it's a vital tool in today’s time to educate children. And it is evident that a lack of online access is hampering the future of the next generation, especially in rural areas. However the simplest thing that we as individuals can do to bridge this digital divide and improve learning facilities for all, is to help whoever we can with appropriate resources and information – starting with our domestic workers and house helps (and their families). Remember, no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

Location: India

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