In the midst of virtual learning, in-person classes, and the constant shifts between the two, many parents are concerned that their children are falling behind academically. Our youngest learners may struggle with reading, while older kids might not fully grasp math concepts or literary themes. However, the truth is, your kids aren’t falling behind—they’re simply surviving a pandemic.
We’re living through an unprecedented global crisis. It’s important to recognize that nobody is falling behind in this context.
As an educator, my partner acknowledges that the educational benchmarks we’ve established are designed to prepare students for the workforce or military. Essentially, we cease to hold students in the educational system once they’re ready to contribute to society. This means that our educational standards are inherently influenced by a capitalist framework that values productivity over genuine learning.
What Does “Falling Behind” Really Mean?
Let’s unpack the idea of children “falling behind.” What is the benchmark? A school administrator might proudly declare, “The standards!” But whose standards? As highlighted by Rita Kohli in an essay for Teacher Education Quarterly, these standards often represent the dominant culture—typically upper-middle-class white norms. Many educational benchmarks are rooted in race and class biases, as discussed in an article by Jennifer L. Hochschild in the Journal of Social Issues.
When we label kids as “falling behind,” we inadvertently adopt these biased standards to assess their progress. Do we want to view our children through a lens tainted by racism and classism? If not, we need to rethink our language and perceptions.
Children don’t simply become readers by the age of five. I attempted to teach my son to read at various stages—at five, six, and six-and-a-half. While he could identify numerous amphibians in our yard, he struggled to distinguish between “b” and “d.”
Kids learn at different paces, and the pandemic hasn’t caused them to lag behind in any meaningful way. If they are, it’s likely due to arbitrary standards that hold little significance.
Standards Designed to Produce Workers
Educational standards are based on a societal agreement that individuals become adults at eighteen. At this age, they can make decisions like joining the military or getting married. Consequently, we expect that by the time they graduate, they should be ready to enter the workforce.
This creates a system where certain educational milestones must be met by specific ages. For instance, children are expected to know their letters by kindergarten to learn to read, which is why programs like Head Start have been implemented. Yet, few question the validity of these standards.
When we say children are “falling behind,” we often mean they may not be ready for the workforce by eighteen. This is a systemic issue, and we shame our kids for not meeting these capitalist goals.
“Falling Behind” Is Not a Problem for the Privileged
Consider this: it’s perfectly acceptable for someone like Prince William to take a gap year. However, if your child thinks about delaying graduation, you might notice disapproving looks from friends. The wealthy can afford to take time off without being judged, while less privileged children are held to a stricter standard.
They Aren’t Truly Falling Behind in What Matters
Your children are experiencing something extraordinary. They will remember COVID-19 and the lessons learned during this time. They are acquiring essential life skills daily.
They are learning to adapt to wearing masks and understand that their actions can protect others, especially the vulnerable. My kids have embraced these sacrifices, and we explain that while it’s challenging, it’s our responsibility to look out for those who are at greater risk. They are not lacking in compassion.
They are also learning to coexist with one another. With limited social interaction, my children are developing essential problem-solving skills and learning to manage their emotions. While they may be behind in subjects like long division and social studies, they are thriving in areas that truly matter.
In conclusion, during this global pandemic, my children have exceeded my expectations in resilience and maturity. The standards imposed upon them may not reflect their true capabilities or growth.
For further insights, check out this post on home insemination and learn more about at-home insemination kits from Make A Mom, which is an authority on this topic. Also, don’t miss out on the excellent resource for infertility information offered by Mount Sinai.
Search Queries
- How does the pandemic affect children’s education?
- Are children falling behind in school due to COVID-19?
- What are the impacts of virtual learning on kids?
- How to support children during a pandemic?
- Understanding educational standards and their biases.
Summary: This article discusses the notion that children are falling behind academically due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It argues that such comparisons are based on biased standards and emphasizes the valuable life lessons children are learning during this unprecedented time. Parents should recognize their children’s resilience and growth outside of traditional educational metrics.