Is Online Schooling Right for My Child?
Parents often ask me, “Should my child consider Online Schooling?” and sometimes they ask, “What is the right age to start Online Schooling?”
It’s a big question!
Not every child is a candidate for Online Schooling. Some may thrive in the traditional environment of a brick-and-mortar school, while others will thrive online.
Each child and every family is different.
Let’s unpack this properly.
To begin with, it is important for parents to understand that Online Schooling and Home Schooling are not necessarily one in the same thing. The primary difference between Home Schooling and an Online School lies in the structure and who provides the educational oversight. Home Schooling involves parents or guardians taking the primary role in teaching and designing the curriculum, while online school is a more structured learning environment delivered by licensed teachers and follows a standardized curriculum.
Grade’s R – 3
Some parents think about starting Online School in Grade R. I understand why—you want to give your child the best. But Online School for little ones is not always the best place to start.
Children in Grades R to 3 are still learning the basics. They are learning to hold a pencil, learning to read and learning to follow simple instructions. They also need to play. They need to run, build, climb and sometimes roll across the living room carpet.
These early years need real-life, hands-on learning.
Online Schooling too early is not ideal. Children in this age group need guidance, structure and help to focus. Screens should not replace sticky glue and finger painting. At this stage of development, school is also about friendship, stories, show-and-tell and playground adventures. Online School can’t give them all of that yet.
Young children thrive with hands-on learning, routine and face-to-face interaction. They typically lack the self-regulation needed to sit in front of a screen and work independently. Gross motor skills, social play and classroom-based activities are key at this age.
If you would like to consider Online School for young children, The Turning Point Academy suggests that you rather consider a more typical Home Schooling approach, where a parent or tutor is actively involved and can guide the learning process.
The Sweet Spot … Grades 4 to 7
Grades 4 to 7 are the ideal time for most children to start online schooling.
By now, they can:
- Read on their own
- Follow a daily routine
- Sit through lessons (even if they squirm a little)
- Start taking responsibility for their learning
They can manage simple tasks – they can log in and navigate their way around a computer independently. They don’t need you next to them all day, but they still need structure, connection and accountability.
At this stage of development, children can now take more responsibility for their learning. They are starting to develop study habits and can navigate digital platforms better.
One advantage of Online School at this age is the relief from the intense and sometimes unpleasant peer pressure that many children experience.
High School
Older children can manage Online School well! Online School suits children who need flexibility, struggle with anxiety or in some cases just need a fresh start. In fact, many high schoolers will thrive in this type of environment.
By the time children go into high school they can work independently and follow a daily schedule. Teens are better equipped for time management and self-discipline. Online Schooling offers flexibility for work, sport, travel and vocational learning. They can benefit from self-paced IEB/CAPS courses and external academic support.
But don’t be fooled! Even in Grade 12, children still need support. They still need structure and accountability. Parents need to watch out for children who may be feeling isolated or have a lack of motivation. Teens still need adult mentors and academic guidance.
Reasons for Online Schooling
The world is changing. We no longer live in the same world that we as parents, grew up in. Education is no different – education is changing! There are many more options available to choose from.
Parents choose Online Schooling for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to:
- A child’s medical needs
- Family dynamics
- The flexibility to travel
- Safer learning environment
- Individual attention
The Turning Point Academy
Because we want to do school differently—on purpose.
We have started The Turning Point Academy because, as teachers, we believe that every child needs to be seen, known and valued. We are small in size, but on heart and serious about quality! We have created an Academy where your child won’t just survive, they will thrive!
At The Turning Point Academy, we offer:
- Live CAPS-aligned online classes
- Small, focused class sizes
- A Study Buddy who weekly checks in with your child and provides you with feedback.
- Regular teacher feedback to monitor your child’s progress
Whether your child is learning online, studying independently or attending one of our exclusive Study Hubs, you can be confident that they won’t get lost in the system.
If you’re considering Online Schooling, explore The Turning Point Academy here: theturningpoint.co.za/academy/
It might just be the new beginning your child has been looking for.
Written by Ben McCarthy
