Due to the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools in the Chicagoland area have switched to remote learning to ensure the safety of students and staff. As remote learning is different from a normal classroom environment, many students are unable to adjust and find themselves overly stressed. 

Remote learning has been a wild adventure for everyone. From Zoom bombs to adjusting to a new remote setting, students and staff have had a lot on their plate. Teachers, specifically the physical education department, have been working to check up on students and help them with any issues or concerns they may have. 

To have the most successful remote learning experience I suggest following these three tips to help manage your workload.

1. Start assignments early

Start your homework early. In between classes is a great time to chip away at your assignments, as we have 30-60 minute breaks between each period. It helps you get a head start and feel more productive instead of sitting on your phone and being unproductive.

“I’ve definitely been more stressed this year because I’ve gotten a heavy workload but I’ve been able to manage my stress by getting my work done first and then doing what I want for the rest of the day,” said Avery Levine, junior. 

 2. Communicate with peers and teachers 

It’s especially important to communicate with your teachers if you are struggling or if you have any concerns about the class. Communication is key to succeeding and it can be easy to fall behind in a remote setting. 

3. Set a routine

The most effective way to manage remote learning is to have a set routine/schedule so that you can accomplish whatever tasks you have for the day. Having a checklist and writing down what you have to get done is a practical way to stay ahead. 

Here are three helpful tips to limit stress and have a fun semester. These tips can help make remote learning and staying at home slightly more enjoyable and stress free. 

1. Exercise

While it may be hard to find the motivation to exercise, a fun workout is a great way to burn some calories, get your blood pumping, and increase your energy. Some effective yet fun workouts are Zumba and dance routines. They help get you motivated and ready to take on the day and are also a great way to boost your mood. I exercise in between my classes when I have a break, and as a result, I feel less stressed and more productive. 

2. Meditation/Journaling

Taking some time to reflect on your day and what you did can be incredibly therapeutic. Winding down and relaxing with some good music can help relieve anxiety. Another way to reduce stress is to journal. Journaling helps get all of your thoughts out, and ranting is often more effective than bottling up your emotions. 

3. Netflix

Watching Netflix or any other streaming platform is one of most fun ways to destress and just relax. Turning the lights off and lighting a nice candle while playing one of your favorite TV shows or movies is a nice way to end your day. TV shows provide some comedic relief and help you take a break from reality. 

“I love watching Netflix because it’s nice to get a break and just take some time for myself to do the things I like,” said Ava Alessi, senior. 

These tips were helpful for me but reaching out to social workers, friends, and counselors are also great ways to limit anxiety and address any concerns.