Remote Reflections: A Year Of Schooling At Home
It is safe to say that that 2020 was not a banner year for any of us. Coronavirus made its grand entrance into our world, and everything was changed forever, including our mental states. Not to mention, when it did, it took everything we enjoyed doing, like shopping, dining out, attending parties, and stomped all over our plans. It canceled weddings and baby showers, celebrations, galore. Then, the schools closed.
Remote Reflections: A Year of Schooling At Home: The kiddos are going back to school and we're not sure how we feel. Click To Tweet
Initially, we all only thought it would be approximately two weeks or so that the kids would be out of school. That did not sound terrible. Then all of a sudden, school’s released their plans for “remote learning.” I was not new to doing school at home, because I was homeschooled. However, “remote learning” sounded different. It was, of course. The kids were all on video and “in-class” virtually.
A rather interesting concept, really. In the beginning, it was even almost fun. But everything has its limits. Now that the schools were closed indefinitely, some kids slid backwards, and others needed a little help along the way, like my son. While he thought it was really cool to work from home, he began to miss seeing his friends. The social aspect of the remote learning was beginning to take its toll.
Some days were better and there were days when it was worse. It felt easy in the beginning, but when things like projects came around, those were a little harder to actually present to a class – via an app felt so impersonal. But I know that was how things had to be. Some days my son completed school with minimal fuss, other days there was some sass. But I suspect that is how it is with every kid. Especially in these unprecedented times, the kids are feeling it, too.
But now comes the time that the kids are heading back into school. At least here in northern New Jersey they are. I’m simultaneously nervous and happy for my child at the same time. Why am I happy? Because I know that my child will at least have that socializiation again with his peers. You can probably guess as to why I am nervous. The Delta Variant. He’s 11. Granted, we have already had COVID, including him back in March of 2021.
I’m apprehensive because God forbid one child takes their mask off, or one faculty member. If they have it, it can spread, obviously we’ve seen just how fast it can, too. I do not plan on vaccinating my child for personal reasons, even though he is a year away from being able to even be eligible. I guess that makes me nervous, too. Am I making the right decision as a mom?
School is a week away, and we’ve got all of our stuff prepared, backpack, notebooks, a matching lunchbox, and a matching mask, of course. I joked with my mother that instead of kids complimenting each other on their clothes, shoes or backpacks, they are going to be complimenting each other on their masks!
Here’s to a healthy school year! Let’s all pray that numbers go down and the kids can stay in school this year!
My boys did not do well with online school. They are back to in person school and doing awesome.
Oooh, thank you! I needed to read this today coz we are going through this as we speak. As you say, “Some days were better and there were days when it was worse”… We are seeing this!
We had a mixed bag last year, my oldest was in school for part adn remote learned for part. My younger two are being homeschooled now. Hoping for a great school year for all!
My kids went back yesterday. I’m still unsure that we made the right decision.
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You’re definitely not alone in your feelings that’s for sure! I hate that my kids still have to wear masks but I’m happy they’re in school so we just deal with it.
It’s a hard time for parents and students. Everyone just has to make the best choice for their family. You are definitely not alone!
Kids here in our country are still at online classes. It’s sad but we have no choice. It’s also for their safety.
This is a demanding time for everyone, especially for children.
That is not an easy decision! My kids are going back to in person school and can’t be more excited about it! Both are vaccinated.
I feel like unfortunately remote learning would be best during this time. I keep hearing about classes shutting down and doing remote learning because someone in the class contracted COVID.
I know a lot of parents are welcoming kids going back to school properly, hopefully with no Covid upsets! Interesting read, thanks for sharing 🙂
This is one of the most difficult decisions a parent has to make. I am from a country that did not go through a lockdown. Yes, schools were closed for about a month but then it was literally no learning because we do not have any means for virtual learning and stuff. So our children have been back to school since 2020 and all I can say is, may God continue to protect our little ones because the situation is turning for the worse everyday.
This covid era is hard on everybody. However, I’ve been grateful that my daughter is old enough so that I do not have to homeschool her anymore.
Praying for a healthy and fun school year!
Homeschooling sounds so tough – as does worrying about your son’s health once he’s back in school. There have been so many challenges over the past 18 months and I think we’re all feeling overwhelmed in different ways, depending on our circumstances. Talking about it helps, though! Thanks for sharing this. X
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Aww, thanks for reminding us! I hope you’re doing alright too!