Like me, many others around the world right now are being forced to balance the role of parent and teacher. You might not have a background in education like I do, but you are now the primary educator for your child. While some people are not able to work from home, others are balancing continuing to work full time on top of teaching your child. First and foremost, do what is best for your family. Any amount of time that you can spend with your child is only going to benefit them. As we all know, children learn differently and at different paces. If your child needs breaks throughout the day, give him/her breaks. If your child functions best from a structured schedule and routine, create one with your child. One of the benefits of you being the teacher is that you can structure your “classroom” however you need to. I truly believe our children are going to walk back into their schools with a greater wealth of knowledge because of this time at home learning from a parent.
I have been so grateful for all the resources that companies are sharing with families during this time. Use them in any way you see fit for your child. Some schools are sending out lesson plans and work for students to complete in a given time frame. Others are not able to offer virtual learning for their students. No matter the situation you are currently faced with, stay positive and do the best that you can. Our children may not be getting everything from us that they would at school from their teacher, but I know that every minute I spend teaching my son something new is a win in my book. Don’t be afraid to step out of the ordinary. Teach your child how to cook your favorite recipe, play a game together, fix up something in the house that has been neglected. These are all teachable moments and ones your child will remember forever. Remember, you are your child’s first teacher. Now that saying has more meaning behind it than before. Take it and soar and your child will be better because of you!
