It’s Not Easy

Virtual teaching is hard. Virtual learning is hard. This is not what we were trained to do. This is not how our students were trained to learn. Yes, teachers use technology to teach. We use videos, online books, websites, etc. But it’s usually an “extra”, not an “always”. Sure, the kids are used to watching a video and responding or using a computer program for extra practice. But, again, it’s “extra”. We are having to re-learn a new system and we’re having to do it quickly.

Parents are also having to learn a new system. The kids are at home, but they still need to work! And now, they have to make sure their kids are logging onto the computer at the right time and are doing the right assignment.

None of us signed up for this. We weren’t prepared.

I’m proud of how my school and my school district has handled the situation. I feel like we have all reacted quickly to the new needs that are arising everyday. Don’t have a computer? The school district is having bus drivers deliver computers and wifi hotspots to the students’ homes. Can’t go to the store? There are schools around town where you can drive through and get your student’s lunch for free. You are a healthcare worker and NEED to be at work? The school district is setting up small facilities with hours for child care. Teachers are sending videos, emails, and texts to kids just to say ‘Hi’ and check in. We want to make sure our students are okay. We miss them. We worry about them. We care for them. Parents are now scheduling their weekly meetings around their students’ zoom calls just so their child won’t miss out. They are having their kids post pictures in the windows for people walking by to brighten someone’s day. They are figuring out new technology to make sure their kids don’t fall behind academically.

We are all adapting and we are adapting quickly. But, it’s challenging. This is different and troublesome and demanding.

So, in all of this adapting and learning new skills, make sure to cut yourself some slack.

It’s okay if your child needs to play Minecraft for an hour so you can get your work done (or just have some quiet).

It’s not the end of the world if your student misses a Zoom call because you had to work. The teacher will understand.

It’s totally fine to use baking cookies as your science and math for the day. Send the teacher a picture, they will love it!

It is okay to use your older kids to translate the Spanish work to your younger child because he can’t figure out what to do. (But make sure the younger kid actually does the assignment). :)

It’s okay to have two hours of recess and one hour of school.

Let your child FaceTime with their friends for longer than you usually would. They need social interaction.

It’s okay to take an afternoon (or day) off and just take the time to reassure yourself and your family that you will get through this. The work will be there tomorrow.

Do what you need to do. Yes, connect with your child’s teacher and do the work you need to do, but try not to be too hard on yourself or your child.

Take a deep breath. We know it’s not easy, but we are in this together.