Post #12 Getting Motivated to Re-Start Autism Home Learning after the Easter Break!

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So, the Easter break is almost over and we enter another 3 week lock-down. At this stage we are all feeling a little de-motivated, so this post reflects on how we might motivate ourselves to keep going with autism home learning.

I confess... I am feeling demotivated today! I am guessing lots of parents and carers may be feeling the same way and perhaps feeling rather daunted at the prospects of more home learning. These feelings are normal given the situation we are in, however knowing that doesn't help us to get motivated! So, why might we be feeling this way and how can we re-energise and motivate ourselves for the task ahead?

Feeling over-whelmed by the task: Let's be honest, most of us have not chosen to start autism home learning! The prospects of three more weeks (and possibly longer) of encouraging and cajoling children and young people to learn at home is daunting. Moreover, we are feeling anxious about the bigger picture and if you are like me you'll have 'stuff' going round on a loop in your head - When will lockdown be eased? What is the lockdown exit strategy? Will I get a shopping delivery slot? Do we need to wear masks? So, take a breath and remind yourself that you are a human being, home learning is a challenge and things will go wrong, but you may also have fun along the way. Here are some suggested steps to get motivated:

Think back to how things went before the Easter break. Your first memory may be of a disaster, but then think about activities that went well. Consider why some activities were successful and others less so, what can you learn from those experiences that might support future activities? 

If your goals are too big, you will feel overwhelmed and probably just keep putting them off. Make a plan, consider writing yourself a schedule or a 'to do' list, that fits around your child's schedule - and enjoy crossing items off when they are done!  Break down tasks into smaller steps as you are more likely to be successful in achieving these. Prioritise tasks and decide which must be done and others which could be done or left for another day. Try to avoid 'self-sabotage' - tell yourself that your efforts are good enough and avoid dwelling on the mistakes, learn from them and move on. 

Try to build in activities on your son's or daughter's schedule that will give you time to do some of the things you need to do. For example, they may have time on their schedule for relaxing using a visual app, or researching their favourite topic - use these times to get on with your own jobs and, most importantly, use the time to take a break yourself. Build in relaxation for yourself as well as your child. If they are relaxing in a 'cosy corner', do something relaxing for yourself.

Build in time for fun activities, having fun together is important for wellbeing and also has benefits for learning. Try some of the sensory play activities, or plan a creative activity which you can enjoy together. Future posts will focus on wellbeing, in the meantime take a look at these tips for wellbeing for yourself and your family: Eden Academy Tips for wellbeing

If you know another family with an autistic son or daughter, try a 'social' activity using skype, zoom, facetime, together. Chatting to a school friend, with support from you, could be enjoyable for all involved, or try an activity such as a quiz :)

Make contact with your child's school, talk to a friend or another parent, talk to someone about how things are going. Talking things through can help you to reflect on what's going well and what needs thinking about. 
  

So, I have overcome my own mental block preventing me from blogging today! Good luck with returning to autism home learning next week and enjoy the moments which make you smile. Post a comment if you have topics you would like me to include on this blog.