As many families are now experiencing the new advent of education at home is not simple and easy as it sounds. There are many factors and challenges that go into it, but at the same time there is also one of the greatest opportunities for parents, caregivers, and educators for discipleship. In this interview Skyler talks with Shelia Maia about a recent workshop that Rise City Church of Gresham, Oregon did to help resource parents with practical and biblical insights to navigate and redeem this new normal of distance learning.

LinksRise City ChurchTiny TheologiansThe Daily Grace Co

Four Common Challenges Families Are Facing with Distance Learning

• Trying to recreate a 6 hour school day at home.
• An overabundance of screen time.
• Figuring out what to do with your kid if the parent(s) have to work.
• Figuring out how to balance working from home and doing home education. 

Three Opportunities Presented to Families with Distance Learning

• A ministry opportunity for homeschool families and/or families with stay at home parent(s): offer support to working parent(s) by offering to open up your home for their kids to have a safe and supervised place for study or learning along with your kids. 
• Distance learning allows families greater flexibility for education. Pick the time that works best for you.
• The Discipleship opportunity is GREAT! Use this time to shepherd your kids heart toward Christ.

Tips for educating and learning successfully 

• Create a vision statement for this school year.
• Be on the lookout for and acknowledge the Christlike character in everyday moments.
• Have them teach it back to you.
• Be your children biggest cheerleaders. 
• Be mindful of the struggle for the stress and struggle this season has on everyone.
• Set an example for how you expect your kids to act and respond (more will be caught than taught)
• Assume the best about your parents.
• Do the hard things first.
• Eat good snack and get adequate movement.