Schools Closed: Pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR, new order for schools under GRAP 4, how will children be taught?

Schools Closed in Delhi NCR: Due to the pollution levels reaching the 'severe' category in Delhi-NCR, GRAP-4 has been implemented. Under this, the administration has instructed schools to operate in hybrid mode or conduct classes entirely online. This change has brought new challenges for children and parents. While preventing academic loss is important, protecting children's lungs from this toxic air is also a priority.

This sudden change can disrupt everyone's routine. Older children can adapt to technology, but it is difficult for younger children to sit in front of a screen and maintain concentration. In such a situation, parents become "co-teachers." Learn whether or not to send your children to school amidst the worsening winter, fog, and pollution (Delhi AQI) in Delhi-NCR. If you are opting for online classes, what precautions should you take?

What to do during online classes?
An order has been issued for schools in Delhi-NCR to operate in hybrid mode. Parents' schedules also get disrupted during their children's online classes. When a child is studying from home, it is important to create a school-like environment. Here are some helpful tips:

Study Corner: Designate a quiet and well-lit place for your child to study. Use a table and chair instead of letting them lie on the bed; this helps maintain concentration.
Follow a Routine: Despite online classes, maintain the same sleep, wake-up, and getting-ready times as on school days. Dressing them in proper clothes instead of pajamas helps the child mentally stay in "school mode."

Technical Preparation: Check the internet connection and device charging 10 minutes before the class starts. This will prevent interruptions.

If you are sending your child to school, keep these things in mind:

If the school is open for a specific reason or if it's necessary to send your child, it is important to take care of their health. You can follow the guidelines below:

N95 masks are mandatory: Ordinary cloth masks cannot block fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) pollution. Make sure your child wears a well-fitting N95 mask.

Avoid outdoor activities: Ensure with the school administration that PT or sports periods are held indoors or in classrooms instead of in open fields.

Stay hydrated: Give your child plenty of water to flush out toxins from the body. Lukewarm water and a tulsi-ginger decoction act as a protective shield for the lungs.

School bus precautions: Keep the bus windows closed and advise your child not to remove their mask during the journey.

How to teach young children (Nursery/KG) at home?
Online classes can be quite tiring for young children. Parents can make their and their child's routine easier by trying the following tips:

Active learning: Connect what the teacher is showing on the screen with physical objects. If the teacher is teaching 'A for Apple', bring an apple from the kitchen and show it to your child.

Screen time breaks: After the class ends, take your child away from the screen. To give their eyes a rest, follow the '20-20-20' rule (look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes).

Interactive sessions: Don't leave young children alone. Sit with them and help them repeat what the teacher is saying.

Physical activities: Encourage yoga or stretching indoors. This will help combat the lethargy caused by pollution.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.