Dr. Caras suggests parents start by grounding themselves in the online learning requirements for the school their student attends. These can differ greatly and can often adapt to changes by the school.

Dr. Caras recommends these 3 strategies, which can be effective for parents during a time of increased online classes for their teenagers:

1. Adapting: Each student will adapt to the shift to online classes differently. Some students are deeply focused learners, comfortable with “deep dives”. These students may do best by themselves, in a space that minimizes distractions.
2. Interacting: Most students depend on social connection, something that a physical classroom and campus provide. Shifting to online classes may require students (and parents) to be more conscious about utilizing social media or tools for virtual connection. Dr. Caras suggests it may be helpful for some more students to carve out the first 10 minutes of each hour of “school” to connect with their friends.
3. Support: Online classes can reduce students' access to support that they may have depended on in their traditional classrooms. Dr. Caras suggests parents encourage their students to ask for help. Some schools are already offering virtual tutor sessions. Students are also organizing a virtual study session, which can allow for peer tutoring. Student may also increase their use of online resources like Khan Academy for help in their online classes.



Parents working from home may be overwhelmed by the challenge of helping their teenager thrive in a new learning environment. It can challenge the strategies that they used to help their students thrive in physical classrooms. By taking a step back and being intentional, parents can be proactive in helping their teenager adapt, remain socially connected, and advocate for help when they need it.