To Go or Not To Go Back to School

                              This is the question many parents are left with for those who children will start school in September. Many parents are already feeling conflicted as to what is the right decision as conflicting messages are pulling parents in many directions. How do parents get around this daunting task that lies before them?.Parents will have to to decide to either keep their children at home or expose them to a deadly virus which doesn't seem to be slowing down at any time soon.

                           There are many models across the world as countries begin to put systems in schools to welcome back students into the classroom.In other countries there seems to be no plan in place. Therefore where should parents take their cue as to what is the correct guidelines.The World Health Organization has issued several guidelines to countries as how to move forward with reopening businesses and schools. Many parents I am sure at this time are feeling quite anxious. Some parents have express concerns about their children losing their space at school if they keep them home.

                For many parents sending their kids back to school will not be as easy as it seems as this will depend on  what options are available to each parents. For some families they may still have the option of working from home. For many parents who work in the service industry or essential services they do not have the luxury of staying home. Also some of these parents may not have extended families to help with overseeing their kids while they are at work.

           Definitely socio economic reasons will also play a huge part if some children are unable to return to school. There are many families who rely on a school meal because the parents cannot afford it.Remote learning will also not help these parents who do not have access to technology or who are unable to assist their children with their daily lessons.

      What then should parents do about sending their children to school? Should they follow the guidelines of some politicians or school boards encouraging them to send their children back to school.Here are a few tips for parents.

        Analyze your situation and see what suits you and your family. What are the pros and cons of keeping your child or children home come September?. what is your exit strategy should you decide to place your children back into the school system before the end of the school year. You will need to have an open and honest discussion with your children's schools administration.

      For some parents they may be able to hire a tutor to teach their children but for parents who are not able to do this, they will need to have a clear plan about they will teach kids while they are home. By now many parents have worked out the kinks having been locked down for many months due to Covid 19, so they have become accustomed as to what to expect. Parents should not feel pressured to send their children off to school unless they are comfortable that the school has correct social distancing in place.

One thing is for sure is that children cannot go back to the same school they left months ago.That is just no longer the normal.It is going to be very hard for younger children to social distance or even to wear mask at all times.Parents should continue to have open discussion with their children about school regardless of their decision. Keep these discussions light and age appropriate, and this should be ongoing. As children moods will change day by day

       Whether parents send their children to school or keep them home they should continue to work closely with their child's school,making sure to follow up on what is happening.Parents should seek help as there are many resources available. Find out what resources are offered in your area.There are many organization and support groups willing to help. Do not feel you have to do it alone. Parents of kids can also get together and team up to teach certain subjects or activities. This will greatly help to relieve stress or give one family a break

During Covid we are all learning how to be creative and parents if they come together will be surprise how much they can accomplish. I truly believe that after going through this many that of us will come out stronger. 

        Ultimately parents, it will be your decision to send your children to school or not to send them. But whatever is your final decision make sure you are at peace with it and that your decision is driven by facts,research and Science because our children are precious and their lives ought to be protected.