As the COVID-19 Pandemic began in March of the year 2020, the world was uncertain of the future. Many people, including myself, assumed that the pandemic would be over by the summertime. We were certainly in for a rude awakening. The pandemic has lasted for almost one year, and much of the world continues to live a life that has been considered the “new norm”. Many schools have reopened full time or offer hybrid schedules for students. On the other hand, many parents have chosen to stay home as assistant home-school teachers, while working full-time jobs at the same damn time!
Of course, as parents, we’re highly concerned about our precious babies catching a deadly virus. But, many of us can also admit that we’re exhausted and ready to get back to normal. As the beginning of the school year was approaching, I mentioned the idea of putting our kindergartener in a homeschool program to my husband. He quickly rejected the idea, because realistically, it would take a financial toll on our family. Now, 10 interesting months later, I got what I asked for. And, quite frankly, I am ready to drop my son off in the school parking lot, leaving him with his teacher like a game of ding dong ditch! This experience has certainly been one for the books. Parents will always remember the time where they had to calmly practice extreme multitasking while trying not to pull their hair out.
Normally, parents assist with completing homework and extracurricular activities after school. Amid the pandemic, we have been tasked with a full school workload that requires extreme patience. This is patience that the professional educator gurus have mastered over years. Parents have been forced to quickly manage their frustrations in the midst of a pandemic. And, sometimes, parental control over powers the need to act as an energetically well-trained kindergarten teacher.
Going into the second semester of my first child’s kindergarten year on Zoom calls as a partial essential worker was something that I could never have imagined. The year of 2020 felt like a bizarre movie, and the movie has carried on to 2021. As many students settle into their second semester, I thought I’d share a few ways that I have coped with the difficulties of our new weekly routine.
Ask for help
Since my husband and I both work full-time, we are pretty busy during the day. He works from home all week, and I am in the office twice per week. Our son’s school schedule is split evenly between us, as Wednesdays are off days for the students. By default, my husband and I help each other, but, it is still pretty overwhelming for the both of us. My mom, a retired education professional, has stepped in and helps out with the activities that need to be done. Asking a family member or friend with free time on their hands to assist when they’re available takes away a lot of stress on parents. It also gives them an opportunity to enhance their bond with the children.
Ask for flexibility with your employer
Initially, I was hesitant to speak with my manager and ask for flexibility, in fear of upsetting the team if there was a delay on a task. But, after a schedule clash between work and school, I quickly realized that the conversation was necessary. With no hesitation, she immediately accepted me spending a little extra time on tasks after work hours to help with my son’s school work. My husband’s employers were the same. And, honestly, if your employer is being a jerk about you taking extra time to assist with your kid’s education in the middle of a pandemic, then you may want to consider looking for a new one.
Teach your child(ren) Independence, they love it
These are the years where children constantly say “I’ve got it” or “I wanted to do that!” Well parents, embrace it and let them navigate getting prepared for school as much as possible. Allowing them to access their video calls and several other systems, teaches them about the innovative world of technology. Also, keeping snacks in reach, reduces disturbances of your work from home schedule. Because, face it, they ask for snacks and juice every hour, on the hour.
Communicate with your child(ren)
There is nothing worse than being in the middle of a video call, and suddenly, your child bursts into the room, shirtless, loudly asking, “Are you on a Zoom call? Can I say ‘Hi’ to them?” At times, this is laughable and adorable, but to some, the interruptions are embarrassing. As parents, we must let our child know when it’s quiet time. Even if we have to reiterate it 10 freaking times in a row! Letting your child know that Mommy and Daddy have a meeting in 5 minutes creates less distractions while trying to get important work done.
Schedule, schedule, schedule
Your child’s teacher will provide a schedule to adhere to, but it is beneficial to create a separate one that aligns with your work and family schedule. Laying everything out sets your daily expectations. Even setting aside time to “catch up” on activities will help you and your child stay on track with school work.
Remain patient and calm
This experience is a first for everyone. Parents have always been overwhelmed with work, but now that we’re practically full-time assistant teachers, we have to remember to play the role of a teacher, and be patient. Kids are used to being disciplined after school and on the weekends. No child wants to be disciplined and scolded by their parents all day long. When this happens, tensions become very high. Just because they knew 1+1=2 one day, doesn’t automatically mean they will remember it the next. Children become overwhelmed and frustrated with this, which may cause tantrums. If tantrums happen, calmly redirect them to build their confidence. Being gentle with your child, taking breaks often, and completing assignments in small segments are some of the ways we’ve managed to reduce frustrating situations. And, don’t forget to congratulate them when they get the answer right every now and then. Encouragement goes a long way!
Last but not least
Give yourself a pat on the back for making it through another week as a super awesome parent!
Keep in mind that no one has experienced anything like what parents are currently experiencing now. There is no right or wrong answer to discovering new ways to cope with our current parental lifestyle. I hope that you have enjoyed this read. Feel free to leave a comment sharing ways that your family gets through the new normal. And, don't forget to share with your friends and family!
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