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Mississauga Christian Academy
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            MCA is a private Christian school dedicated to providing excellent Christian education.

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      • Covid-19 Learning
          • Learning at Home

            MCA offers a safe Remote Learning model as part of our Christian school program.

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            Information and resources to help students effectively learn in a remote environment.

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            Return to School Plan

            MCA staff look forward to learning in person with your children in Sep.

            Learn More

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          • Junior Kindergarten (JK)

            Welcome to JK, our early childhood development program based on Christian values..

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            MCA offers a safe, challenging, nurturing and fun Senior Kindergarten Program.

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          • Grade 1-2 Curriculum

            Grades 1 and 2 at MCA are an exciting time of reading, writing and math basics.

            See Grade 1 Curriculum

            See Grade 2 Curriculum

            Grade 3-4 Curriculum

            MCA's Grades 3 and 4 are dynamic, student-centred with a wide range of engaging subjects.

            See Grade 3 Curriculum

            See Grade 4 Curriculum

            Grade 5 Curriculum

            MCA's Grade 5 help students successfully transition to Middle school and beyond.

            See Grade 5 Curriculum

      • Middle School
          • Grade 6 Curriculum

            MCA's Grade 6 covers a wide range of subjects enhanced to go beyond all standards.

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            Grade 7 Curriculum

            MCA's Grade 7 covers a wide range of subjects enhanced to go beyond all standards.

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            Grade 8 Curriculum

            MCA's Grade 8 is an exciting time as students fully prepare for High school and beyond.

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        New students always welcome! Get full admission detail.

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        MCA welcomes international students to all school programs, from JK to Grade 8.

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        Get informed about tuition, fees and the cost of optional classes and activities.

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        Transportation

        MCA offers school transportation with a safe and reliable busing service.

        Learn More

        School Uniforms

        Learn more about our school uniforms, dress code and MCA Spirit Wear.

        Learn More

        Financial Aid

        MCA makes Christian education available to all with our Financial Aid Program.

        Learn More

        Apply Now
  • Continuous Learning
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Menu

  • Home
  • Enrichment Curriculum
  • About
      • About Us
          • About Us

            MCA is a private Christian school dedicated to providing excellent Christian education.

            Learn More

            MCA Facts

            MCA is committed to academic excellence, development of character and personal integrity.

            Learn More

            Why MCA

            Find out what makes MCA unique and an excellent school choice for your child.

            Learn More

      • Our Teachers
          • Our Teachers

            Meet our highly qualified and dedicated staff with a passion for Christian education.

            Learn More

            Join Our Team

            We invite passionate OCT educators to apply to some of the open positions at MCA.

            Learn More

      • Our Board of Directors
          • Our Board Of Directors

            We are a non-profit organization operating under the direction of a volunteer board of directors.

            Learn More

            Our Core Values

            We focus on students as individuals, teaching and living out a Christian worldview and community-based education.

            Learn More

      • Our Facilities
          • Gym

            A multipurpose space that is able to accommodate our various sporting needs.

            Learn More

            Classroom

            Our child-friendly classrooms provide a stimulating environment for student growth.

            Learn More

            View All Facilities

            We invite you to explore all facilities at MCA, including our gym, science labs and more.

            Learn More

      • Book a Tour/Open House
          • Virtual Tour

            If you are unable to come see our school, sign up for a virtual tour so you can experience our classrooms and facilities.

            Learn More

            1-on-1 Private Tour

            We would love to show you our school in person where you can see first hand what the learning experience at MCA looks like.

            Learn More

            Book a Call

            If you have some questions about our school and would like to talk to someone, book a call with us and we would love to hear from you.

            Learn More

  • Academics
      • Covid-19 Learning
          • Learning at Home

            MCA offers a safe Remote Learning model as part of our Christian school program.

            Learn More

            Student Guidelines

            Information and resources to help students effectively learn in a remote environment.

            Learn More

            Return to School Plan

            MCA staff look forward to learning in person with your children in Sep.

            Learn More

      • Kindergarten
          • Junior Kindergarten (JK)

            Welcome to JK, our early childhood development program based on Christian values..

            Learn More

            Senior Kindergarten (SK)

            MCA offers a safe, challenging, nurturing and fun Senior Kindergarten Program.

            Learn More

      • Elementary School
          • Grade 1-2 Curriculum

            Grades 1 and 2 at MCA are an exciting time of reading, writing and math basics.

            See Grade 1 Curriculum

            See Grade 2 Curriculum

            Grade 3-4 Curriculum

            MCA’s Grades 3 and 4 are dynamic, student-centred with a wide range of engaging subjects.

            See Grade 3 Curriculum

            See Grade 4 Curriculum

            Grade 5 Curriculum

            MCA’s Grade 5 help students successfully transition to Middle school and beyond.

            See Grade 5 Curriculum

      • Middle School
          • Grade 6 Curriculum

            MCA’s Grade 6 covers a wide range of subjects enhanced to go beyond all standards.

            Learn More

            Grade 7 Curriculum

            MCA’s Grade 7 covers a wide range of subjects enhanced to go beyond all standards.

            Learn More

            Grade 8 Curriculum

            MCA’s Grade 8 is an exciting time as students fully prepare for High school and beyond.

            Learn More

  • Admissions
      • Admission Process

        New students always welcome! Get full admission detail.

        Learn More

        International Admissions

        MCA welcomes international students to all school programs, from JK to Grade 8.

        Learn More

        Tuition Fees

        Get informed about tuition, fees and the cost of optional classes and activities.

        Learn More

        Transportation

        MCA offers school transportation with a safe and reliable busing service.

        Learn More

        School Uniforms

        Learn more about our school uniforms, dress code and MCA Spirit Wear.

        Learn More

        Financial Aid

        MCA makes Christian education available to all with our Financial Aid Program.

        Learn More

        Apply Now
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Distance Learning Guide for Parents – 6 Tips to Help Your Child Learn at Home

Due to various social distancing measures enforced because of the COVID-19 pandemic, schools across Ontario have been forced to move to an entirely new learning model – Distance Learning.

This abrupt change has put many parents through the wringer. Converting your home into a classroom can be quite challenging. Plus, the distance learning experience can vary significantly from school to school, which puts added stress.

Because this is a new concept for many parents, you’re probably wondering how you can make this transition easier for your kids.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of distance learning, discuss its biggest challenges and share some tips on how to help your child get the most out of remote learning.

 

What is distance learning?

image showing distance learning using online platforms
Distance learning, also known as remote learning, learning from home or online learning, is a form of education where the kids are physically separated from their teachers and classmates. Students typically take classes at home via video conferencing over the internet using a laptop or tablet.

Students and teachers communicate through dedicated platforms such as Zoom, Google Classroom or Google Meets, they use file-sharing services for delivering assignments and set up Google Forms to grade tests.

The distance learning model has been on the rise even before the pandemic. Online classes have been available to students of all ages, from kindergarten and elementary school to high school and even college. However, since the start of the pandemic in 2020, this kind of learning model became the norm. Today, most schools adopted this system because of local and national COVID-19 prevention measures.

 

Distance learning in Ontario

Distance learning in Ontario works similarly to other global distance learning models, with a couple of distinctions. These differences stem from the need for different systems to abide by local remote learning rules and regulations.

Ontario’s educational system recognizes two main distance learning types:

  • Synchronous learning –this represents learning that happens in real-time. Synchronous learning uses different tools that will make the student’s educational journey more comfortable. This includes texts, images, videos, and voice communication. It’s very engaging and reciprocal – the communication flows both ways.
  • Asynchronous learning –on the other hand, asynchronous learning is not done in real-time. This type of education usually entails the use of pre-recorded materials, pre-assigned tasks, and online discussion boards.

During distance learning, schools in Ontario must provide parents and students with a daily schedule which should include:

  • 300 minutes of learning opportunities
  • A combination of synchronous and asynchronous materials and activities
  • Must include opportunities for guided instruction, large and small-group learning, synchronous check-ins, and asynchronous independent assignments

 

Biggest challenges of distance learning for kids

Distance learning in early childhood is particularly difficult because we all know how kids get bored quickly. Another downside is repetitiveness – kids usually detest repetitive activities. These are some other challenges your kids might experience:

  • Lack of socializing
  • Lack of interaction
  • Focus
  • Motivation and productivity
  • Having a hard time adjusting to new tools and software
  • Establishing and sticking to a daily routine
  • Learning difficulties

 

How to make learning at home easier for your kids

image showing kids learning at home with the guidance of their parents

At school, kids get into work mode easily because they associate their classroom with work. Until recently, their home was the place they used for relaxation, watching TV, playing video games, and having fun.

Now, when their “fun place” also becomes a “workplace,” things get trickier. However, with these six easy tips, you will be on the right track to increase your kids’ productivity.

 

1. Create a dedicated learning space

Make sure to create a dedicated workspace that your kids will use for schoolwork only. It should be well-equipped with stationery and back-to-school supplies so that your child doesn’t have to break focus when needing to replace a pen or find their sharpener.

It should resemble a school classroom as much as possible – add posters, a bit of colour and make it fun. Just be sure that it’s not too distracting, though

 

2. Assist your child with schoolwork

At school, your kids are surrounded by teachers who help them out with all unclarities. When learning from home, getting in touch with your teacher is more complicated and less personable. Ask your kids if they need help with homework or other schoolwork. You can also partner with the teacher to see what resources you can use and how you can help.

Show them quality resources which they can use to find answers or practice their skills while having fun.

 

3. Introduce physical activities

Physical activity can have an incredibly positive impact on young learners helping them increase alertness, improve attention as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Sometimes, moving and shaking your body a bit can make you feel less tired.

Children attending classes at home must endure hours of lessons every day, sitting in the same position in front of a screen most of the time. Exercise breaks will help your child feel refreshed and focus during the next class.

During breaks, encourage your child to go outside, run, play with a ball or dance around to the tune of their favourite song. Anything that will get their blood flowing.

image representing that physical activity can have an incredibly positive impact on young learners

 

4. Have realistic expectations

Remember that your kids are still adjusting to this learning model – don’t be too hard on them. Don’t expect them to figure it out on the first they because they can get discouraged.

Instead, take it one day at a time and ensure that your kid is not overly stressed because of this transition. Be encouraging and helpful.

 

5. Talk to their teacher

If you think that your kid is having trouble with e-learning, but they won’t admit it, schedule consultations with their teacher. Ask them how your kid is performing or whether they lack support in some areas. Then, adjust your kids’ learning environment and activities to support their needs.

 

6. Create routines but avoid repetitiveness

Establish simple routines and schedules for your child’s schoolwork when learning at home. Routines will help set expectations as well as help your child develop habits.

Plan out your child’s “school day” including things like when to wake up, when to engage with schoolwork, study, work on assignments, etc. But also, be sure to set some time to take breaks, go outside, watch TV, play games as well as connect with friends.

The issue with distance learning is that it can be quite repetitive. And , children may not enjoy doing the same thing all over again.

Make sure to switch it up from time to time – change up their workspace, organize backyard picnics or Zoom hangouts with their friends.

 

What to look for in a distance learning system

The transition to learning at home was not an easy one for many parents and students. Even though distance learning has some advantages when it comes to flexibility, not all schools have adapted to the new remote learning model quite so well.

A strong distance learning system must provide personalized education both in-class and remotely. Teachers need to engage and challenge each student individually with a high emphasis on wellbeing, both physical and mental. Young learners need to get opportunities to express themselves and interact with peers, the same way they would in class.

At Mississauga Christian Academy, we refer to distance learning as At-Home Learning. We offer a remote learning system that supports student engagement, inspires learning progress, and encourages an open communication flow between teachers, parents, and students. We combine synchronous and asynchronous remote learning models with regular personal check-ins to ensure that students’ goals and expectations are met at any given moment. We are also focused on building and fostering our community so that students don’t feel alone as they learn.

If you’re looking for a private kindergarten, elementary or middle school that provides a safe and productive distance learning environment, the Mississauga Christian Academy might be the perfect fit.

We’re currently accepting admissions for all our school programs – book a call with one of our educational advisors and find out what makes our learning model stand out.

Meet MCA Director of EnrollmentJoyna Oommen

Dear Prospective MCA Families,

You don’t have to wait for the beginning of a new school year to apply to MCA. Students are welcome to register at any time during the year. Feel free to contact me at the school office by phone 905-826-4114, or by email, if you have any questions or would like to arrange an appointment to come in and see our school.

Talk To Our Director of Enrollment
Mississauga Christian Academy is a Christian Private School in Mississauga, Ontario. MCA serves a diverse student population and is focused on preparing young people for high school success.
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Address: Mississauga Christian Academy 2720 Gananoque Drive Mississauga, ON L5N 2R3 CANADA

Phone: 905-826-4114

Fax: 905-567-5874

Email: info@mcalearn.com

Contact Us

Address: Mississauga Christian Academy
2720 Gananoque Drive Mississauga,
ON L5N 2R2 CANADA
Phone: 905-826-4114
Fax: 905-567-5874
Email: info@mcalearn.com
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