Virtual Learning Movement

As a mother of 3 kids, I have so many concerns for this 2020-2021 school year. Do I send my kids school for onsite learning or do I join the virtual learning movement? Just like most parents in America this school year will bring so many difficult decisions to make. Virtual learning is at the top of the discussion right now, as it should be. It challenges the traditional methods of teaching and provides a safer academic option during the pandemic. Arguably it is also challenging for parents who are not tech savvy as well as it is bringing new obstacles for lower income families. 

Ultimately, we must remind ourselves that we are doing the best for our kids. As parents we sit and think about how difficult making the right decision is. We take into consideration not only their academic success, but the societal expectations we face as parents. We selfishly get wrapped up in how hard it is for us to make these decisions for our kids we forget to take a moment and think, “what about our kids?”. They have concerns just like we do, they are after all in school 10 months out of the year. We want their feelings and concerns to be acknowledged and validated. Sometimes sitting down as a family and really laying out all the pros and cons for the family to discuss can bring a new perspective to the decision-making process. It is important that we don’t lose ourselves in the chaos of this pandemic, that we remain united as a family to weather the storm. Whichever decision you may choose, it will be the right one because only you and your child know what you both can handle. 

Through it all, we must take a minute to breathe. Schools districts, medical professionals and government officials are doing what they can to make sure that every student and teacher will remain safe. They are allowing the parents to decide if they want their child to return to school, have virtual learning or hybrid learning. Companies are also stepping up by offering help to families that may need a computer, internet and meals for kids while they are at home during the pandemic.  Although at moments we feel the isolation from quarantine and social distancing, we have so many resources and help from our community and people in our very same situation. 

We are surrounded by resources. You can contact your school district to see what help is available to families during this pandemic.  If you’re not sure how to do at home virtual learning or how to set up your home to feel more like a learning environment, you can always watch YouTube videos on “How to do Virtual Learning” or search Facebook for veteran homeschooling moms tips and advice on how to make at home learning run smoothly. Pinterest is also a great source of information from so many moms who have used this platform as a starting point on how to set up learning spaces in their homes. Who knows, maybe you could start your own YouTube channel or Live Facebook feed to help other parents that are now in the same boat you once were. We are surrounded by resources we just need to do our homework and figure out what works best for your family. 

It takes a village to raise a child so reach out to your family, friends, coworkers, or your kids friends’ parents to see if they may have any tips or advice.  With everyone helping and sharing tips/advice we can ensure we are providing our kids with the best learning solution for this school year. 

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