Teachers are amazing but I don’t want to be one. And especially not to my own children. But in these exceptional Covid-19 circumstances I get the feeling there is an expectation I’m going to have to step up, at least for the next few weeks anyway.
Where do I even start? It was a struggle to get my teenagers out of the house before 8.30am, now they wake up around lunchtime. For the sake of my sanity this school will begin at lunchtime, it will be intense and over by 3pm. And what will this makeshift school look like? The options are limited; the lounge which is my space or the kitchen which is far too close to the fridge? Once again for my own sanity they can have the kitchen, and the fridge.
So now all I need is a curriculum and resources. The school will take care of the curriculum but where are the resources coming from you may ask? Good question!
This is where I might be able to help. If your household is connected online and your child has a device there is a world of resources for all ages online at Auckland Libraries, you may remember I said I was a librarian earlier.
That idea you have of a librarian, the matching twin set and pearls? Erase it because it’s certainly not me! I have a few pieces of art tattooed on my body – albeit both library related (thank you Dr Seuss) and cultural (fa’afetai lava Samoa), I can deadlift 100kg and can pack a decent punch in the ring.
Enough about me. Using your unique number of your library card log online here.
And then what? Online resources.
Study help and Online Courses takes you to both Popular and All Resources.
Help and information on all subjects – maths, english, social studies, science. With so much to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. Never fear, wherever you click will take to a reputable source. A couple of my favourite go-to’s are:
Gale in Context: Middle School (with also a High School version available). Here you will find a one-stop resource for Intermediate school students covering a wide range of subjects. With 462 topics from Cultures, Geography, Social Issues, Science and everything in between.
Interestingly, there is already a wealth of information on pandemics (yes, coronavirus) available via Gale in Context: Global Issues – a database of balanced information about issues, conflicts and events from a variety of sources.
There is something for everyone, from Preschool to Primary, from Intermediate to High school. Adults may find it difficult to give the computer up to the kids once you’ve found yourself on here.
lynda.com is a fabulous resource as well, for Adults and teens – check it out. From CV writing and interview tips though to graphic design and sports courses. There’s absolutely something for everyone.
If you don’t have a library membership?
Sign up for an Auckland Libraries eMembership to enjoy free access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming movies and more. It only takes a couple of easy steps and can be done entirely from home.
So as we parents prepare ourselves to become substitute teachers for the next little while remember it’s ok to send yourself to the naughty corner for a bit of time out.
(Written by Trina Roycroft)