As a former educator, I can confidently state that a few months away from traditional schooling won’t lead to your child’s failure. During these challenging times, many of us have found ourselves in the dual roles of parent and teacher, particularly as we navigate the complexities of remote learning amid a global crisis. Like countless others, I have felt overwhelmed by the demands of virtual education—managing video calls, emails, and various learning materials—all while trying to juggle my own responsibilities as a parent. To add to the challenge, I find myself grappling with subjects like third-grade math that I am not well-versed in.
Despite the chaos of distance learning, I firmly believe that my children are not doomed to fail academically because of this upheaval. The truth is, my background as a college instructor has shown me that success in higher education stems not from being the top student or the most tech-savvy, but rather from possessing qualities like personal responsibility, resilience, and adaptability.
Understanding Parental Concerns
I understand the fears many parents are experiencing. Concerns about children falling behind, the impact of COVID-19 on college prospects, and the challenges of re-entering a structured classroom setting are widespread. I’ve grappled with these thoughts myself, particularly regarding my children who face learning disabilities and ADHD. It’s natural to worry about how the current situation affects their educational journey.
Historically, we have leaned heavily on the education system to provide our children with everything necessary for success. The sudden shift to home-based learning has left many parents feeling lost. Even for those with teaching experience, like myself, adapting to this new mode of learning is daunting. We are all trying to balance supporting our children’s education with our other responsibilities, often resulting in feelings of frustration.
Lessons from College Teaching
Reflecting on my college teaching experiences, I recall students who would disappear for extended periods, only to return and ask, “Did I miss anything?” Many of these students were intelligent but lacked accountability. They were used to being rescued from their mistakes, leading to an expectation that learning should come without effort. In my role as an educator, I was not there to cushion their fall; I was there to teach.
The absence of humility and self-awareness among some students hindered their ability to thrive, regardless of their intelligence. In college, there is no hand-holding. Attendance and timely submission of work are critical. Students who fail to meet these expectations often find themselves repeating courses, not because they lack skill, but because they do not take responsibility for their learning.
Fostering Resilience and Responsibility
Amid the current crisis, parents are understandably anxious about their children’s academic progress. However, it’s vital to recognize that children are inherently curious and adaptable. Missing in-person school for a few months does not equate to failure. Even if remote learning continues into the next school year, we can navigate these challenges together.
Now is the time to focus on instilling important life skills in our children. If they make mistakes, encourage them to take responsibility, apologize, and learn from those experiences. Promote teamwork through family projects and chores. Teach them financial management with a simple allowance system. Allow them to encounter challenges; this is where true learning occurs, as they develop problem-solving skills and learn when to seek assistance.
While we may be more involved in our children’s education than before, it is crucial not to do the work for them. Instead, we should guide and support them, helping them develop skills that will benefit them throughout their educational and professional journeys. The years ahead will provide ample opportunity for academic preparation, whether for college, trade school, or other paths. The time spent together now is invaluable for teaching essential life skills, which are just as important as academic knowledge.
Additional Resources
For more insights on navigating parenthood during these times, check out this post on intracervical insemination. If you are interested in resources on home insemination, Make A Mom provides excellent guidance. Additionally, the CDC offers valuable information on fertility and related topics.
Conclusion
In summary, while the current educational landscape may seem daunting, it is crucial to remember that fostering resilience and responsibility in children can lead to long-term success. Embrace the opportunity to teach life skills that will serve them well beyond their academic careers.