As we approach the fall, the prospect of returning to school looms large for many families. The challenges of the past few months have left parents feeling drained, and if you’re not one of them, I envy your secret. In the United States, the era of distance learning is coming to a close, allowing parents to work from home without the added complexity of virtual classrooms and endless Zoom sessions. However, summer is set to be a season filled with complaints from kids who can’t swim or socialize with friends, while parents scramble to meet work deadlines.
The Mixed Emotions of Returning to School
In normal circumstances, the return to school in the fall brings relief. Yet this year, the anticipation is tinged with anxiety. Nevertheless, I am resolute: if schools are open, my children will attend. Let’s be clear—my decision isn’t born solely from exhaustion or the challenges of having my kids at home. While it’s true that I experience these feelings daily, the choice stems from a thoughtful consideration of my children’s needs.
As a freelance worker, a significant portion of my responsibilities cannot be managed from home. Currently, I am relying on unemployment benefits to offset my work loss, but as those benefits phase out, I will need reliable childcare to pursue my job outside the home. Like many working parents, the school environment serves as a safe space for my children while I focus on providing for our family.
Understanding Safety Protocols
The safety protocols surrounding school reopenings are understandably complex. The CDC has outlined that virtual classes carry the least risk, while in-person instruction necessitates stringent measures such as small, consistent groups of students, mask-wearing, and social distancing. Schools must adhere to cleaning protocols and symptom checks to safeguard the health of everyone involved.
Before the pandemic, my children’s school had already begun implementing social distancing measures. For instance, their teacher utilized hula hoops to designate personal space during activities. These preventative strategies will likely become standard practice alongside new protocols.
Community Considerations
A crucial aspect of my comfort level is how our local community approaches these guidelines. Vermont has managed the virus effectively, and I trust our government officials to maintain transparency and safety for all residents. Parents must weigh their community’s ability to support the necessary safety measures before deciding whether to send their children back to school.
If a community lacks the resources to provide a safe learning environment, or if a child is at high risk, then staying home is the prudent choice. It’s essential to avoid making decisions based on social media posts or sensational blog articles. The thought of my kids wearing masks is heartbreaking; however, just as we wear mittens in the cold or apply sunscreen on sunny days, masks are now a part of our protective gear.
The Need for Social Interaction
My children require the social interaction and routine that school provides. I am not equipped to homeschool them effectively, especially when it comes to navigating new curricula. The stress of managing their education alongside my job is overwhelming, and I worry that my own anxiety may affect them more than the absence of their peers.
As a queer family, we’ve always navigated a world that often sees us as different. We will adapt again, but I recognize the privilege I have regarding my children’s health and educational needs. Many parents are caught in hard situations, balancing the need to work outside with the necessity of a safe educational environment for their children.
Making the Decision
If the schools my children attend implement the recommended guidelines, they will return to the classroom. I am aware that this decision involves trusting systems beyond my control. My choices are grounded in what is best for my children’s well-being and not simply my immediate desires. Children are more resilient than we often give them credit for, and if challenges arise, my ex-partner and I will reassess together. But we must attempt this return; our current situation is unsustainable.
Looking Ahead
As we approach September, many uncertainties remain. I strive for a sense of relief that has eluded me for so long. If my children can return to school safely, I will feel a mix of heartache and cautious optimism for their future.
For those interested in related topics, you can review this blog post for more insights on family planning. Additionally, Make a Mom offers valuable resources on home insemination kits, and News Medical provides excellent information about pregnancy and assisted reproductive technologies.
Conclusion
In summary, while the decision to return children to school in the fall is fraught with emotion and uncertainty, it is a necessary step for many families. Careful consideration of community resources, child welfare, and personal circumstances will guide these choices, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptation in these challenging times.