Parents Navigate At-Home Learning During Alberta Teachers’ Strike

With schools in Alberta closed due to a teachers’ strike, many parents face the challenge of keeping their children engaged in learning. This situation has raised concerns about how to effectively navigate the provincial teaching toolkit designed to support at-home education. Stephanie Schuurman, a professor at the University of Alberta, recently shared insights on the complexities of this toolkit and offered guidance for parents during this disruptive time.

Understanding the Teaching Toolkit

The Alberta teaching toolkit, which spans nearly 260 pages, covers educational content from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Schuurman describes it as a daunting document that can overwhelm parents not accustomed to navigating such extensive material. “The layout of this toolkit is disorganized, confusing and just really difficult to navigate,” she noted during an interview with CTV Your Morning Edmonton.

Many parents may feel pressure to follow the toolkit closely, especially after an October 8 letter from the province’s education minister emphasized the importance of continuing learning at home. However, Schuurman clarifies that there is no expectation for families to adhere strictly to the Alberta curriculum during the strike. “Teachers don’t expect parents to be administering curriculum right now,” she stated, highlighting a common misconception among parents regarding at-home education.

Establishing Routine and Learning Opportunities

For parents looking to establish a daily routine for their children, Schuurman recommends consistency, particularly for younger children. This includes getting dressed each day and ensuring outdoor activities and social interactions. “Ironically, I think fun and games is actually one of the best ways that we can learn and keep them engaged,” she added. This approach encourages families to seek meaningful learning experiences within their homes and communities, rather than relying solely on the toolkit.

Parents may also wonder how to determine appropriate lessons based on their children’s ages. Schuurman suggests reading with children and engaging in activities that promote interaction with older relatives. While online platforms like Google Classrooms can provide a resource for reviewing previously covered material, she emphasizes that no new curriculum should be introduced during the strike.

Reflecting on the current situation, Schuurman acknowledged that many teachers have expressed that it feels like a long summer break for their students. “The whole point of a labour disruption is that learning is disrupted,” she said, reinforcing the urgency of returning to normal school operations.

As the strike continues, parents are encouraged to focus less on formal education and more on maintaining a supportive and enriching environment for their children. This period of adjustment may be challenging, but with the right mindset and resources, families can navigate at-home learning effectively while awaiting the resolution of the strike.