Remote learning or in-person classes? Suddenly, NYC implemented a new rule: once you made your choice, you were locked in for the entire school year. No take-backs. To complicate matters, I had to decide whether to remain at my in-law’s secluded home or return to the bustling city.
Let’s just say Alex’s Dad and I had differing opinions on this matter. His anxiety was at an all-time high concerning the risk of exposing our child and family to COVID. The resurgence of cases was overwhelming, pushing his stress levels to their limit.
My primary concern was our child’s emotional well-being due to social isolation. I was also incredibly homesick.
I had read numerous articles showing reassuring data that schools were not significant sources of COVID transmission. This information eased my mind, especially knowing many friends in the city were participating in in-person learning safely and joyfully.
To be fair, Alex had the most phenomenal remote learning teachers for first grade, whom they affectionately called their “village.” These educators were exceptionally engaged and infused their classrooms with energy and humor.
At first, Alex was so shy that he wouldn’t even turn on his camera. But within days, he couldn’t stop unmuting himself. I felt guilty even considering uprooting him from this newfound routine, as remote learning seemed to provide a sense of normalcy.
In recent months, Alex’s public school had to close multiple times due to rising COVID cases. Some parents found the inconsistent schedule disruptive, while others were just grateful for any in-person learning days. Thankfully, many nearby schools remained open due to low COVID numbers.
“It’s not like Alex will be missing out on a grand production of the Pirates of Penzance!” his Dad argued.
I pictured the assembly hall empty, echoing with the school bell’s sound. The thought of Alex missing his first-grade play made me sad.
“Yes, but at least he could play outside with friends while wearing his mask! He doesn’t know anyone here,” I countered.
“But it’s getting so cold; how long can he do that?” he replied.
“It’s not like he’ll be sitting in the lunchroom with friends,” his Dad added.
“But at least he’ll be close enough to share jokes with them,” I responded.
“And what about the fact that neither of us has the patience to navigate remote learning?” he shot back.
It was challenging to align on our child’s education choices. Our situation wasn’t unique; the question of “remote learning or in-person” was straining many families. Numerous articles outlined the pros and cons of each option.
Judgment from other parents only made decision-making harder. Yes, remote learning was exhausting parents. Yes, schools kept fluctuating between open and closed as COVID cases fluctuated. Yes, many families relied on schools to stay open. Yes, many teachers felt their safety was at risk while trying to educate our children, especially since they had kids of their own. Yes, data indicated schools were not major contributors to COVID spread. Yes, studies showed the adverse effects of social isolation. Yes, many families were still fearful of the uncertainties.
We went back and forth, sharing our conflicting feelings weekly with our therapist. We aimed to validate each other’s anxieties and emotions and not to dominate the conversation. Most times, we struggled, but we kept trying. We confronted our stubbornness and allowed ourselves to feel overwhelmed.
No family makes perfect choices, and opinions on how to educate children vary widely.
Ultimately, we decided to continue with full remote learning and remain at my in-law’s home. We also agreed to arrange more socially-distanced playdates, ensuring Alex received the interaction he desperately needed. That meant I had to join local parenting groups to set up playdates, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
When I see the choices other parents make, I remind myself that they are doing the best they can. For more insights on parenting during these challenging times, check out this blog post and resources on home insemination and IVF.
Summary
Navigating the decision between remote and in-person learning during the pandemic can be overwhelming for families. This comic illustrates the emotional struggles parents face, balancing safety concerns with the need for social interaction for their children. Ultimately, every family must make choices that work best for them, reflecting the unique challenges of this era.
Keyphrase: Remote vs. In-Person Learning
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]