“Socializing” for Hybrid/Remote Learners

As the days stretch on in this age of COVID schooling, children are seeking social contact with others - friends, classmates, even family members. Some may be sad and quiet, some may be acting out - many are having trouble focusing on lessons when they are hungry to just chat and be a part of a social group. 

It’s also more complicated when some are in-person and some remote, or all remote ... and all “socially distant.” This lack of contact is becoming even more pronounced with the colder weather. 

In the interest of meeting the social needs of your kiddos AND getting those students on track for success, some time needs to be carved out for some simple, creative solutions. 

Try these ideas: 

Classroom Pen Pals: 

Since finding time is always a factor, incorporate some socializing into your writing time. Have students do pen pal activities, but do it within your class, to let them “mingle” without moving around :)  Pair remote students with in-person friends to improve spirits and make connections. Any age students will benefit from this - whether they are sending written letters, pictures or cards. Each week, pick names from a hat to rotate who is “pals” with who! 

Show and Tell: 

Each day, make it a part of your meeting time to give students a turn to talk about something personal they’ve been desperate to talk about. You can choose a theme, such as family or season, or even tie it to a science or reading lesson. A favorite book, artwork, or a family photo would work, too. Try an author’s chair - virtual or in-person - regular chances to interact with friends and express themselves will do wonders for morale :) 

Class Yearbook: 

Have students work on writing about themselves and doing self-portraits to compile a “directory” and provide one to each student. Establishing connections and finding out more about each other can only help with any isolation that students may be feeling. 

Good luck! And .... Have fun!