Distance learning quickly became the new normal when the coronavirus pandemic happened. Homeschooling was not a choice for most families. However, months after experiencing distance learning, there has been a change of heart for some parents.
Part of the protocols for the COVID-19 pandemic is the closing down of establishments all over the world. Aside from malls, schools were also shut down to ensure the safety of children during the pandemic. Instead of traditional learning in the classroom, virtual learning became the routine of children.
If some parents gave up on distance learning, some are in the opposite direction. According to an article by TODAY, a growing number of parents are inclined to homeschool their kids. Some consider doing this even after the COVID-19 crisis. Others are looking for prerequisites before deciding to put their kids back to traditional schooling.
Here are some of the reasons parents prefer homeschooling:
1. Homeschooling addresses the specific needs of their children.
Mom from Ohio, Tena Moore Crock, saw that there are some activities that her son can do better by emphasizing his strengths. Because of this, Moore Crock is considering homeschooling as an option this coming fall. She also realized that since her son is an introvert. That is why studying at home did not become much of an issue for her son.
2. Homeschooling gives parents and children more freedom.
Aside from the heart condition of Moore Crock's son, they also liked the flexibility brought by virtual learning. What they learned in the past months that her son is into homeschooling, activities, and assignments that may be tailored to the parents' liking.
READ ALSO : Kids Are Sick of Video Calls, and Here's Why
3. Homeschooling can provide stability to children.
Some parents see homeschooling as a way to give their children a sense of stability. They were considering that the pandemic disrupts almost all activities. For some families, a plan that is consistent for the time being could at least provide children a feeling of security.
4. Homeschooling is the best option until a vaccine is available.
More than anything, parents are also after the safety of their children. Because of this, parents think that it is still not safe to send their kids to school. That is unless a vaccine for the coronavirus is available.
In an article by the New York Post, parents shared their hesitation about the opening of schools in September.
Some of the parents say that it is not worth taking the risk, especially since the coronavirus has a fast rate of infecting people.
Moreover, some parents are alarmed by the mysterious condition affecting children that have been associated with COVID-19.
Different states are considering all options in addressing this issue in education. Different homeschooling requirements are used depending on the land.
The opening of classes is still in September; by then, multiple scenarios could happen. Right now, parents are weighing all of their options.
However, it is undeniable that homeschooling is also not for everyone. There are still some parents who don't see homeschooling as for their lifestyle and set-up.
Experts also warn that if families plan to choose to homeschool, several aspects should also be considered. That includes the mental health of all family members.
