By Karen Best Wright, B.S., M.A., Holistic Wellness Coach
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
Wow! I can't believe it has been six months since I wrote in my blog. The first half of 2020 has been quite an ordeal for a lot of people. It's been tough enough on young parents with children. Now, imagine grandparents in their 60's and 70's trying to care for multiple children and guide them through schooling online. Long-distance schooling through the schools is very different than actual homeschooling. So if you found the online schooling provided by the schools way beyond your abilities or patience, just do not compare it to successful homeschoolers. I know because I've been a home-school mom before, and it is way different. I've communicated with many grandparents who have struggled over the past few months. Some grandparents have grandchildren who whizzed through with no issues. Other grandparents simply had to give up and hope the kids would catch up next year.
My youngest granddaughter I have raised is a high school 2020 graduate. What a disappointment for our high school seniors. For our family there was no senior prom, there was a drive-thru pick up your awards morning, and hopefully something that will resemble a graduation on July 31st.
My advice is if your last few months have thrown everyone in your family off kilter, don't fret too much about it. Everyone is in the same situation. The schools, teachers, and communities are all going to have to become creative in helping children progress. But it has been a stressful time for many. Just take heart that you are not alone.
Karen Best Wright, a grandmother raising an almost grown granddaughter
I am 65 yrs old and have had my grandchildren for 4plus years now. A girl now 7 years old, boy 11. In December, my husband passed suddenly. So, I have been dealing with being a single grandparent with two children since December, and alone 24/7 with them since March 12.
We have spent two or three hours a day home schooling every day in the spring, and are doing an hour a day through the summer. Don't now what fall will look like, but I truly hope schools can open, because I would really love some time alone without sitting up all night after they are in bed.
I, at least, have taught in the past and can deal with this, but can't imagine being in this position without that background. Nevertheless, this is not what I had expected for my old age and it is very, very difficult. I have no wisdom to impart, just support for anyone in the same boat.
Posted by: Lynn | July 13, 2020 at 02:53 AM