My 7-year-old’s remote learning is a whirlwind of work that some days neither of us wants to tackle. Each morning, there’s whining and stalling unlike anything seen in humanity before — and then I wake my son. I wish I could say that after months of virtual learning, our schedule is seamless, but I cannot.
Maybe it would be more tolerable if my son’s school work didn’t take longer than it does to watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy. With his one No. 2 pencil “to rule them all” we dive into schoolwork while I try to meet deadlines and figure out new ways to incorporate cheese crackers into all our meals.
With this busy pace keeping us occupied, I didn’t expect to find time to take in any new life lessons. Still, inspired by my kid’s online schooling, here are seven of the best ones I’ve learned over the past months:
1. Always be dressed for the day
In the morning, I’m struggling to remember what day goes with what online class. Remembering to change out of my Narwhal sleepy-onesie is last on my mind. Being seen in the background of school Zoom meetings in my pajamas isn’t the best look. Thank goodness none of the 2nd graders have mastered the art of the screenshot.
2. Know when to mute yourself
I’m good at giving my son advice, but not good at knowing when to mute myself. Using my more direct “mom voice” to remind my kid to stop flying into frame, Superman-style, I hear way too late, “Let me press the mute button.” Yep, our exchange has been heard by his class, his teacher, and all the parents listening. Next time, I’ll pass him a note.
3. Laughter and learning go hand in hand
When I encourage my son to stop his dance parties and focus on his assignments, I’m unsuccessful. When I encourage him to have dance parties while working, he manages to finish. It’s counterintuitive, but I can count on learning happening when there’s more fun involved.
4. Plans will go wrong
Trying to adhere to a timetable while homeschooling is like trying to put your newborn on a sleep schedule. It doesn’t happen. There’s always an unexpected assignment or meltdown that interferes. I’ve found it a great deal less stressful rolling with whatever the day brings — even if that means rolling with my kid on the floor during his meltdown.
5. Teachers are incredible
All. Of. This. My kid’s teachers have found a genuine patience and care that helps him feel safe during a time that continues to shift. They’re part of the glue keeping my son together, and I can’t thank them enough for sticking by him.
6. Work isn’t as important as connection
Accomplishing a task is my jam, but pushing my son to get his work done can create tension. I run the risk of damaging our trust and it’s not worth it. Taking breaks, even at the risk of falling behind, is a better solution for keeping our connection connecting.
7. Just go with it
Every phase in my son’s life has taught me something about myself, but this stage sure has packed in those lessons. This year, I’ve learned more than ever to just “go with it.” This attitude releases expectations that might cause me frustration or disappointment, allowing me to remain more centered.
I didn’t anticipate getting schooled during my son’s virtual school classes. I’m glad some new lessons have popped up and that I’ve been reminded of old ones. This way, my son and I can continue learning lessons together — even if it's at the expense of our sanity.
