Remote learning or in-person education? Suddenly, NYC implemented a policy where the choice you made had to be final for the entire school year. No changing your mind. The decision was even more challenging as we debated whether to remain at my in-laws’ rural home or return to the bustling city.
Let’s just say Daniel and I were not on the same page regarding this. His anxiety about exposing our child and family to COVID was through the roof. With the second wave hitting, his nerves were frayed.
I, on the other hand, worried more about our child’s emotional health due to social isolation. Plus, I missed home terribly.
I had come across numerous articles providing data that indicated schools weren’t significant spreaders of COVID. It reassured me knowing many friends in the city were managing in-person learning safely and happily.
However, to be fair, Miles already had fantastic teachers in his remote first-grade class, affectionately dubbed their “village.” They were enthusiastic and infused their lessons with unmatched energy and humor.
At first, Miles was so shy he wouldn’t even turn on his camera. Yet, within days, he couldn’t stop unmuting himself. I felt guilty even considering taking him away from this new routine. Remote learning provided him with a sense of normalcy. For now, it was working.
Over the past few months, Miles’ public school had to close several times due to rising COVID cases. Some parents found the erratic schedule disruptive, while others were simply grateful for any in-person learning days. Nearby schools remained open because of lower COVID rates.
“It’s not like Miles will miss out on starring in a grand production of Pirates of Penzance!” Daniel argued.
I envisioned an empty assembly hall, echoing with the distant school bell. It saddened me to think Miles might miss his first-grade play.
“Yes, but he could at least play outside with friends while masked! He doesn’t know any kids here,” I countered.
“But it’s getting colder; how long can he do that?” he replied.
“It’s not like he’ll be eating with friends in the lunchroom,” Daniel added.
“But at least he’ll be near enough to share some laughs,” I insisted.
“And what about the fact that neither of us has the patience for remote learning?” I rebutted.
It was challenging not to agree on our child’s education. This dilemma—“remote learning or in-person learning?”—was putting pressure on countless families and friendships. The internet was flooded with lists weighing the pros and cons of each option.
Judgment among parents made the decision even more daunting. Yes, remote learning was overwhelming us. Yes, schools kept closing and reopening as COVID cases fluctuated. Yes, many families relied on schools to stay open. Yes, many teachers felt they shouldn’t have to risk their lives to educate our children, especially when they had kids of their own. Yes, there was increasing data showing schools weren’t responsible for COVID spikes. Yes, studies highlighted the adverse effects of social isolation. Yes, many families were still anxious about the uncertainties ahead.
We debated back and forth. Each week, we shared our conflicting emotions with our therapist, trying not to dismiss each other’s fears and feelings. We often failed, but we kept trying, shedding our stubbornness and even sharing some tears.
No family makes perfect choices, and not every family agrees on what’s best for their child.
Ultimately, we decided to stick with full remote learning and remain at my in-laws’. We also agreed to arrange socially-distanced playdates to ensure Miles got the interaction he desperately needed. This meant I joined local Mommy Facebook groups to set up playdates, for which I am very grateful.
When I see the choices other parents make, I remind myself: I know you’re doing the best you can.
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Summary:
This comic narrative illustrates the challenges faced by parents during the pandemic regarding educational choices for their children. It captures the emotional turmoil of deciding between remote and in-person learning, emphasizing the impact of COVID-19 on family dynamics, social interactions, and the importance of supporting one another through uncertainty. Ultimately, the narrative concludes with the decision to continue remote learning while seeking social interactions for the child.
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