“Technology is just a tool. In terms of getting kids working together and motivating them, the teacher is the most important.” Bill Gates
One of the most challenging parts of the “shelter-in-place” order has been the suspension of school and the continuing education of our children. It has been an enormous challenge for families, many with multiple children. Parents are trying to work from home or may not be home if they are essential workers. And the ones who are home are finding it difficult to carry out the role as a teacher on top of everything else in their lives.
Some are challenged by not having computers or Wi-Fi to connect with the schools. New York City has sent out 247,000 iPads with built in internet, but some school districts do not have that ability. Maybe some districts can get a few iPads for underserved kids, but those kids may have to sit in a car outside the school or library to connect with Wi-Fi. There may be language barriers, or they have children with special needs. Even the most dedicated parents are facing a challenge.
Kids are not used to being home all day. They are anxious and have energy with no place to expend it. Some children who are calm when in the classroom working with their teachers and classmates are not willing to sit still and work with their parents. Parents are often finding that teaching methods are different than when they went to school and trying to recall your algebra and geometry lessons from long ago can be difficult. Working with multiple children and ages adds another layer of stress all while trying to keep up with your own job. Make a schedule for school and stick to it as much as possible. Have a dedicated space for schoolwork but allow some flexibility, knowing that kids don’t stay in one place for long. Understand that all kids have different learning styles.
Schools most likely won’t resume this year, and even returning in the fall is a question mark. But school districts are trying to find creative solutions, possibly having summer school with limited enrollment and social distancing. Remedial help may be available online and when the schools are reopened, help will be available for students that fell behind.
Maybe the ones experiencing the most anxiety and stress are the parents. Being home with the entire family and caring for their needs, worrying about the virus, financial difficulties and lack of moral support are taking their toll on the mental well-being of our populace. Our next frontline heroes may well be our mental health workers. Bless them all.