PARENTS working from home while overseeing their children’s education during lockdown might be finding the period challenging, education chiefs have admitted.

Lesley Brown, East Lothian’s chief education officer, encouraged such families, while agreeing it was not easy.

She said: “With this being a difficult time, it’s important to recognise that we do not expect children and young people to always follow a typical school day, especially when parents are sometimes having to juggle other tasks such as looking after others or working from home.

“Learning can be carried out in a flexible way to suit a child/family’s individual circumstances and, if you have any questions about this or the best approach to take, please do not hesitate to contact your school.

“Our school staff will continue to embrace a flexible creative approach to learning and teaching, where possible maximising the use of digital technology to support learning for children who are being cared for at home.

“Teachers will continue posting [online] learning assignment tasks for children, including active learning opportunities which they can undertake with their families.

“Anyone who doesn’t have a phone or internet access should let their school know. They will ensure you have the ability to stay in contact with school staff and receive information and support in continuing children’s learning.”

The Young Scot website has useful advice and information, while BBC Bitesize is a helpful learning support resource for school-aged young people.

Judith Tait, the council’s chief operating officer for children’s services, added: “We recognise it is a very difficult time for families and that our children will be missing their friends and the daily interaction they get from school and clubs.

“We also understand the challenges of keeping children and young people engaged in learning without the structure of the school day.

“While home will be the safest place for most young people, we realise this is not necessarily the case for everyone.

“That’s why we are highlighting a number of people or organisations who can help if anyone feels worried, upset or unsafe – either for themselves or, indeed, someone else.”

The council’s advice in such circumstances is: l If possible, speak to an adult you know and trust who can listen and take action to help;

l Although schools are closed, staff are still available to talk to. Email your child’s school’s office if you would like to speak to someone;

l Contact Childline about anything – they are there to support children. Call 0800 1111.

l The website cool2talk.org provides a safe space where young people can get their questions answered accurately and without judgement. They respond to questions within 24 hours.

l The social work department is there to help and support children and young people who are at risk of harm or don’t feel safe at home. Call 01875 824 309 or 0800 731 6969.

l If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call the police on 999.

l With schools being closed, children will be spending more time online and must be protected from cyberbullying and online grooming. Net Aware and Thinkuknow can help parents or guardians report abuse and have lots of information to minimise risks online.

Ms Tait added: “Supporting and meeting the needs of all our young people, including the most vulnerable, is always a priority for the council and our partners. In these unprecedented times, this has never been more important.”