Introduction

As a single parent, the impact of remote learning on your elementary school child and the challenge of maintaining your income can be particularly daunting. This article explores the different approaches and considerations necessary to balance these two essential aspects of your life.

Options for Managing Work and Learning

One of the primary challenges for single parents is how to manage both work and remote learning for their children. The most common approaches include work-from-home arrangements and utilizing non-working friends or relatives to watch your child while you work outside the home. These options must be negotiated with your employer, and there are federal programs like the Family First Corona Virus Act that can provide limited support if you qualify for a leave of absence.

Support Systems and Community Programs

The availability of support systems and community programs can significantly alleviate some of the pressures. Programs like Boys and Girls Club offer valuable after-school care and other resources that can help when you have to work outside the home. These organizations can provide a structured environment that helps keep children engaged and safe while you are at work.

The Remote Learning Experience

Remote learning requires a disciplined and structured environment. With the ongoing public health concerns, the demand for high-quality educational resources and a dedicated space for learning is crucial. While some have been able to adapt, the high daily case rates remain a significant challenge. This situation highlights the need for comprehensive safety measures and support for parents.

Learning from History: Lessons from the Past

Historically, single parents have faced numerous challenges in balancing work and family life, yet they have found ways to manage. For instance, during the Great Depression and World War II, my grandmother managed single parenting for her two elementary and later junior high school students. She adapted to the situation by relying on a neighborhood network and family support, fitting in work and family responsibilities around school hours.

Adapting to Current Circumstances

While current circumstances may seem unprecedented, the adaptability of single parents shows that it is possible to manage both. It may not be ideal, and there will undoubtedly be challenges, but single parents have a history of creative problem-solving. The primary responsibility for educating their children lies with the parents, not teachers. This is a crucial lesson that should be reinforced in the current context.

Conclusion

-single parents find themselves in a difficult position due to the need to balance work and remote learning. While there are challenges, historical examples show that it is possible to manage with the right support and flexibility. It is important to remember that the primary role of school is not to serve as a babysitter but to provide education and support for children. As a single parent, you must embrace the reality that sometimes you may need to take on additional responsibilities that come with parenting.