In recent times, a number of parents have made the decision to completely disengage from distance learning for their children. Who can blame them? As we juggle work responsibilities, household chores, meal preparations (seriously, the never-ending cooking!), and adapting to a new learning environment, it’s understandable that something has to give before we reach our breaking point.
For many parents, the dilemma is clear: they can either maintain their jobs or take on the role of teacher. With most of us unable to forgo our income, the choice becomes stark: do we attempt to fulfill both roles, or do we let go of the educational aspect entirely? The harsh reality is that the hours in a day simply don’t add up, prompting some parents to abandon e-learning without a second thought.
In an ideal situation, children would be able to navigate their assignments independently, staying organized and genuinely learning. However, the truth is that kids of all ages require adult supervision, guidance, and reminders. This need intensifies for those with special needs, who often require more support than their parents can provide without additional resources like special education teachers or therapists.
I had never really considered the possibility of completely stepping away from distance learning until I came across a viral tweet from an academic, an Egyptologist, and a mother, Amanda Richards. She candidly shared that she had written to her son’s “wonderful and caring” teacher to say her son was “done with first grade.” She emphasized that their family was prioritizing survival and well-being over academic demands.
As a former educator and a mom of four, my instinct is to follow the rules. I certainly want my kids to be engaged with their education, but the reality is exhausting. The constant interruptions to assist with e-learning can be overwhelming, leading me to question my approach. Each day is filled with emails about assignment updates, Zoom meetings, and missed tasks. Just the other day, we had four Zoom calls scheduled at the same time. While my older kids are somewhat self-sufficient, two of my children have special needs that require my focused attention, which can be draining.
The idea of giving up has crossed my mind more than once. What if we simply took a break until school resumes in August? Would my kids really fall behind, or could they adapt? Are we sacrificing their mental health for the sake of academics, and what implications might that have?
Take the example of Bethany Lane, a ninth-grade teacher and mother of a kindergartner. She decided to pull her son from distance learning, prioritizing her teaching responsibilities while still ensuring he learns important concepts without relying on “unnecessary technology” for his age.
Similarly, Jamie Thompson shared that after just a brief stint with distance learning, she halted the process for her three children, all with special needs. “I felt torn between emotional health and pushing through, and I chose emotional well-being,” she explained.
Another perspective comes from single mom Tara Greene, who holds an academic background in social anthropology, particularly regarding pandemics and their effects. After witnessing her first grader’s escalating frustration with online learning, she informed her child’s teacher that participation would not be happening.
In our household, we’ve chosen to embrace distance learning, albeit with boundaries. If a Zoom meeting conflicts with our schedule, we skip it. If it’s a beautiful day, we’re outside instead of glued to screens. We prioritize breaks for snacks, chores, and family calls. There have even been days when I’ve declared that school is off the table altogether because we simply needed a mental health day. Teachers have been incredible during this time, providing the flexibility and understanding that families desperately need.
If you’re struggling with the decision about e-learning, remember that you have options. Communicate openly with your child’s teacher about what is essential for academic progression. Take cues from experienced homeschoolers and listen to your child’s feedback about what works and what doesn’t. Distance learning doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing situation; finding a balance is key.
Ultimately, you know your children best, and your well-being is important too. Taking breaks, adjusting expectations, and seeking assistance is perfectly valid. This global pandemic has been an unprecedented experience for parents, teachers, and students alike. We’re learning to prioritize our needs and adapt for the benefit of our families.
For more insights on navigating parenting during these times, check out this post on Home Insemination Kit. And if you’re looking for authoritative information on home insemination, visit Cryobaby’s Home Insemination Kit. For excellent resources on pregnancy, tuning into Cleveland Clinic’s Podcasts can be quite beneficial.
Summary:
As distance learning continues to challenge families, some parents are choosing to disengage entirely. The balance between work and educational responsibilities can be overwhelming, especially for those with special needs children. While some have opted out, others strive for a flexible approach. Open communication with educators and focusing on mental health are key to navigating this unprecedented situation.
Leave a Reply