I want to make it abundantly clear: your mental well-being takes precedence over homeschooling your children. As someone deeply invested in education—both as a professional and as a parent—I can’t stress this enough. We’re navigating uncharted waters in a crisis that has transformed our lives in unimaginable ways. We’ve seen job losses, income instability, and a shortage of essential supplies. Our routines have been shattered; the comforting normalcy of playdates, music classes, and even quick trips to the store is a distant memory. In exchange, we’ve taken on the title of “homeschool teacher.”
But let me be clear: your mental health is paramount.
If you’re on the frontline of this crisis—thank you. Your courage is commendable. Yet, you might be living in fear, worried about your health or the possibility of bringing illness home to your loved ones. Meanwhile, your children, who now require homeschooling, are still in need of your attention and support.
Perhaps you’re a parent juggling a full-time job from home while managing the chaos of multiple children, each with their own needs and demands. Or maybe you’re alone in this. Your partner might be working essential hours, leaving you to manage everything. And if you’re coping with a mental health issue, the weight of it all can feel suffocating during a pandemic.
Trust me, I relate. As a mother of four children aged 16 months to 11 years and someone who deals with anxiety and depression, I feel the strain. On a regular day, my mental state teeters on the edge, and now, while navigating Zoom meetings and juggling meals, I find myself drowning in the homeschooling responsibilities. Even with support, it can be overwhelming.
So, let me reiterate: your mental health is more important than homeschooling your kids.
This doesn’t mean we should disregard the importance of education. Schools are striving to provide continuity through distance learning, recognizing that students may face challenges moving forward, and it’s crucial to stay connected. The efforts made by educators in such a short time are nothing short of remarkable. However, homeschooling should not be the breaking point for you.
If it feels like it’s too much, reach out to your child’s teacher. Communicate your struggles and let them know what you’re facing. They’re likely more understanding than you think. For instance, when my son had difficulty with an online assignment, I reached out to his teacher. Through tears, I explained our situation, and she was incredibly accommodating.
We are all figuring this out together—parents, teachers, and administrators alike. None of us have the perfect answer, but what’s clear is that we can’t support our children effectively if we’re not taking care of ourselves first. This may mean scaling back on homeschooling or even pressing pause altogether.
Your mental health is the priority right now. Remember, you matter more than the curriculum.
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In summary, prioritize your mental well-being over the demands of homeschooling. Take care of yourself so you can be the best parent possible.
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