My version of COVID: Coming Out Victoriously In (spite of) Differences
What is COVID-19?
What does COVID mean to you?
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| Dad reading with children. Courtesy of Project Learning Tree |
For me, COVID is symbolic of evaluating/reevaluating relationships. COVID has definitely shown us how people feel about one another; about class, about race, about culture, and lastly, about following "the rules". We've seen up close and personal, the nastiness of this virus in more ways than one.
We have seen the disparities among the haves and have nots; our educational system, which we've always known to be subpar, is presently under a microscope as we see firsthand how many students and families are struggling to "keep up".
We have a choice to make in this situation we have found ourselves in. We have to decide first and foremost, what type of example we are setting for our children; our children watch what we do before they listen to what we say. The old adage, "actions speak louder than words" is indicative of how children respond to, and behave in various situations. A student in one of my Fall courses at the college shared her experience with online learning and a conversation she had with one of her students; she's a high school assistant. Basically, her role is to work with the teacher and assist students during and after the call. In short, the student wanted to speak with her one-on-one because she was concerned her family would contract the virus because her parents were not taking it seriously. She was concerned with the family gatherings and outings (often with no masks) and wanted advice how to speak to her parents about it.
The young lady wondered if the news and governor were saying no gatherings with others outside your home and stay home, why her parents were not following the rules.
My only advice to my student (to share with her student) was this: Encourage the young lady to speak to her parents about how she feels; her fears, and her concerns, in hopes that her parents will listen and understand that they are setting a horrible example. At the same time, I reminded my student that this is an example of what we discuss in our course; we have to understand and respect the differences in others. There are some who respect themselves and others and do not want to cause others harm, and there are some who do not care how their actions affect others. We have to do our best to educate them and provide resources but in the end, not everyone will make the same decision.
As parents, we want to always be sure we are setting an example for our children that mimics how important it is to follow rules and regulations. We can't expect our children to know right from wrong when we ourselves are not setting the best example. Simply doing what we want to do and having our children observe our behavior can possibly lead to us getting phone calls from teachers/administrators about our children not following rules at school. If you want your children to behave at all times, set the example for them at all times.
As global citizens, we have a responsibility to our homes, our schools, and our communities. Will you do your part? Are you doing your part?
Let's share:
How have you parented through this virus?
Have you set the best example for your child or children?
Have you found ways to take advantage of this time with your children? Have learned their likes/dislikes with this virus? Have you been an engaged member with the school campus even though its virtual?
Have your tried some new recipes in the kitchen and invited your children to help you?
Have you had family game nights?
I'd love to hear how you all have been dealing with this virus from the perspective of a parent. Share your comments below.
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