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6 ways for parents to ace HBL now that it's back, again

Home-based Learning (HBL) is back! Starting 27 September through 7 October, the full HBL will apply to all primary school students and special education schools as a measure to protect “our younger students who are not yet medically eligible for vaccination”, as reported by the Ministry of Education (MOE).

HBL is not something new for parents and children since the coronavirus started invading our lives. By now, parents would have come to terms with the fact that our kids require a lot more supervision than initially thought. Since the previous HBL, you may have already set up a sort of process to assist Junior in HBL, as well as work from home (WFH) simultaneously.

But as diligent parents, there are active steps we can take to create a conducive virtual learning environment for our children. Since HBL seems to be here to stay, it would be constructive for your child to have in place a dedicated learning area if you have not already done so.

Check out the following six ways you can make HBL a more pleasant and effective process for Junior while keeping them safe. The biggest plus is you don’t need to be a super parent to do so!

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Tip 1: Create the right environment

Much like creating the right ambience when it comes to sleep, dedicating a corner for work and study can signal to the brain that this is the time to focus whenever you are in that workspace. If you have not already done so, allocate a proper space in the home for Junior. This space should preferably be somewhere as far away from distractions such as the TV as possible. Here are what we think may help ease your child into the new learning environment.

Ergonomic children study table and chair

Set a space for Junior to study. PHOTO: Amazon
Set a space for Junior to study. PHOTO: Amazon

Ergonomic chair for kids

Get comfortable with a gel seat cushion

Maintain Junior's eyesight with a dimmable desk lamp

Cut out distractions where possible with noise-cancelling headphones

Tip 2: A home for every item

One of my biggest takeaways from Marie Kondo’s decluttering ethos is for every object to have a home. Look to Houze for storage solutions. Having a tidy study area and a neatly stacked bookshelf can significantly help minimise distractions and inspire Junior to learn.

Look to Houze storage solutions. PHOTO: Shopee
Look to Houze storage solutions. PHOTO: Shopee

Plus, it makes it easy for Junior to locate his stationery and access school essentials from Stabilo, Staedtler, Faber-Castell and Zebra. There will be fewer requests from Junior in finding stationery necessities if all his supplies are clearly in sight and neatly placed.

Tip 3: Minimise learning challenges

Not having the right tools and gadgets can severely impede the learning process. Ensure Junior is well-equipped for what the school has to offer.

Get the new Apple iMac

The new iPad or iPad mini may resolve your gadget issues

For a limited time only, trade-in your current iPad and get credit towards a new one. T&C applies.

Prefer windows? Get the Lenovo workhorse.

For your scanning and printing needs

Canon Pixma Wireless All-In-One Printer, Scanner, Copier

Print your kids homework and notes with this all-in-one Canon printer. PHOTO: Amazon
Print your kids homework and notes with this all-in-one Canon printer. PHOTO: Amazon

Tip 4: A clean home (and air) is necessary

When it comes to cleaning the home, Dyson is the undisputed king. Cleaning becomes a cinch with Dyson's thoughtfully designed products.

The cordless Dyson V12 is one gadget that pet-loving homes should have.

Dyson V12 cordless vacuum cleaner. PHOTO: Lazada
Dyson V12 cordless vacuum cleaner. PHOTO: Lazada

No time? We hear you; juggling zoom meetings and your child's HBL is no joke. Minimise your stress level with an automated robot vacuum cleaner.

On top of personal hygiene, the coronavirus has certainly put into perspective the importance of cleanliness at home, especially now that we are at home 24/7. Did you know that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air? Know that cleaning, vacuuming, mopping the floor doesn’t mean that the air is clean. This silent air steriliser from Portugal deserves a space in your home.

The Air Steriliser from Portugal will fit right into your home. PHOTO: Airfree Air Sterilisers SG
The Air Steriliser from Portugal will fit right into your home. PHOTO: Airfree Air Sterilisers SG

From now till 30 September, spend a minimum of S$500 and get a Superdry backpack worth S$89. Free shipping on all orders.

Tip 5: Stay on top of the health game

Long hours in front of the computer may put a strain on Junior's eyes and brainpower. However, with the upcoming examinations, it may be time to fortify Junior's health and well-being right now.

The Very Finest Fish Oil, Natural Lemon, 800mg, 200ml

The Very Finest Fish Oil, Natural Lemon, 800mg, 200ml. PHOTO: iHerb
The Very Finest Fish Oil, Natural Lemon, 800mg, 200ml. PHOTO: iHerb

Kid's Chewable Multivitamin, Orange & Berry, 120s

Kid's Chewable Multivitamin, Orange & Berry, 120s. PHOTO: iHerb
Kid's Chewable Multivitamin, Orange & Berry, 120s. PHOTO: iHerb

The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider on queries regarding a medical condition. Any action taken by you in reliance on or in connection with this content is solely at your own risk.

Tip 6: Get professional help

When it comes to parenting, we have so many valuable resources at hand for guidance. Whether joining a parent support group on Facebook or a Whatsapp chat group with your kids' parents, you get tips and tricks on your child's development and more. We can also seek out professional help with self-help books where we can learn to become better parents.

How to Talk, so Kids Will Listen and Listen so Kids Will Talk

How to Reach and Teach Children with Challenging Behavior (K-8)

Self-Discipline for Children...and Adults!

Parental Guidance to Encounter Children's Failure

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