Dubai’s KHDA has released a distance learning guide for parents, outlining key strategies to support students, enhance engagement, and improve outcomes in online education environments. Parents are expected to help children access learning, stay on track and feel supported at home.
In a new parent guide to support distance learning in Dubai, the education regulator positions families as enablers at home, helping children stay connected, follow routines and remain engaged, while keeping expectations realistic and manageable.
KHDA places heavy emphasis on communication between home and school. Parents are advised to flag absences, disruptions, travel, distress, connectivity problems, time-zone differences, or any other barrier to learning early, rather than waiting for problems to escalate.
The guide says parents can help by making sure devices work, children can log in, materials are organised, and there is a suitable place to learn. They should encourage attendance and effort, but not replace the teacher. It also notes that if a public safety alarm sounds, safety comes first and learning should continue only where appropriate.
“If your family is outside the UAE or your temporary living arrangements have changed, but your child remains enrolled in school, inform them early so that suitable allowances can be made.” said KHDA's parent guide.
KHDA also addresses camera use and online conduct. Parents are advised to:
Follow school guidance
Protect children’s personal information
Avoid sharing passwords or recordings unless clearly required
Flag privacy concerns or inappropriate behaviour early.
For younger children, it recommends keeping devices in communal spaces where possible and staying nearby during sessions.
The guide says some children may need more tailored support, including students of determination, younger children, and those dealing with anxiety, family stress, or access barriers. Parents are encouraged to speak with the school, and where relevant the Head of Inclusion, about alternative arrangements, therapy support, shorter tasks, extra breaks, or a different pace of learning.
The guideline said families should focus on five priorities:
Staying connected to school: Help your child keep up with the school’s timetable, messages, and learning activities.
Supporting participation: Encourage your child to join lessons, complete assigned work, and stay engaged as much as possible.
Maintaining routine: Keep the day manageable and predictable, allowing time for learning, breaks, meals, movement, and rest.
Protecting wellbeing: Pay attention to your child’s mood, energy, stress, and motivation, not only their work completion.
Communicating early: Let the school know promptly if there are any challenges, concerns, or changes affecting your child’s learning.
The guide also stresses the importance of clear communication between home and school, and offers practical steps parents can take to minimise confusion, address issues early, and ensure children receive the support they need.