Centre releases guidelines for parents for home-based learning during school closure

Union Ministry of Education on Saturday released the Guidelines for Parent Participation in Home-based Learning during the school closure and beyond during the coronavirus pandemic in India. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank' tweeted and said that in this ‘new normal’ of the coronavirus pandemic in India, considering parents' role as pivotal to children's growth and learning, these guidelines aim to provide information on the ‘why’, ‘what’, and ‘how-to’ of participation and engagement in supporting children during the school closure, irrespective of their literacy levels. Also Read | ‘The Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh passes away due to post-COVID complication Home is the first school, and parents are the first teachers, he said. The guidelines on home-based learning emphasize the need for parents to create a safe and engaging environment and a positive learning environment, have realistic expectations from the child, take care of health and eat healthy, while at the same time having fun with children. Also Read | WTC Final 2021: Team India wears black armbands in remembrance of Milkha Singh These guidelines are meant not only for parents but also for caregivers, other family members, grandparents, community members, older siblings who all are engaged in promoting the welfare of children. The guidelines provide many simple tips for parents and others to facilitate children in Home-based learning. These suggestive activities are in accordance with the various stages of school education as per the National Education Policy 2020. Age-appropriate art activities have been categorized on basis of 5 3 3 4 system viz Foundation Stage (Age 3-8yrs); Preparatory Stage (Age 8-11 yrs); Middle Stage (Age 11-14yrs); and Secondary Stage: From Adolescent to Adult age (Age 14-18 years). The activities are simple and suggestive, which can be adapted and adopted to local needs and contexts. The Guidelines appreciate the role of art as a therapy for children under stress or trauma. Click here to follow PTC News on Twitter -PTC News