10 Tips for Managing Childcare and Teaching Kids During the COVID Crisis

This article is by Laura Adams

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The coronavirus pandemic has not only produced a health and economic crisis, but a childcare and education crisis for American families as well. Millions of parents are juggling childcare and teaching while working full-time jobs.

If you’ve been stressed by managing so many new responsibilities at once, you’re not alone. A March and April 2020 survey by the Bipartisan Policy Center found that 63% of families struggled to find childcare to keep working. According to the study, eight percent of parents reported they took paid leave to deal with childcare, and 11% took unpaid leave.

A July 2020 survey by the U.S. Census Bureau found that 18% of working-age adults weren’t working because COVID-19 disrupted their childcare arrangements. Another July 2020 survey conducted by OnePoll showed that four out of five parents were thinking about homeschooling their school-age children this fall.

Here are 10 tips for managing childcare and teaching during the pandemic.

1. Prepare for the unexpected.

If your children return to classroom education, their school could close due to a coronavirus spike. Have a plan to work from home, take a leave from your job or identify someone who can watch or teach your child, just in case.

2. Communicate with your employer.

Don’t be afraid to communicate with your manager or human resources department, so they fully understand the childcare and homeschooling issues you’re facing. They might be able to make accommodations to ease the burden.

But your employer won’t be able to help if you don’t have an open conversation and ask for assistance. Brainstorm several win-win ideas or plans ahead of a meeting with your company so you can propose a variety of beneficial solutions.

3. Be aligned with your parenting partner.

Make sure you and your spouse or parenting partner agree on childcare and teaching options. Stay calm and keep an open mind about creative ways to handle these unprecedented challenges.

Find ways to share all your responsibilities, so you don’t get overwhelmed. These might include adjusting work schedules, seeking a different job, taking a leave of absence or hiring a childcare provider.

4. Create a routine.

Creating and sticking to a daily routine can help your children keep up with their schoolwork. Having dedicated times to study, go outdoors, have meals and do extra-curricular activities creates a structure that kids can rely on and look forward to.

If your children attend school virtually, they may complete assignments more quickly or more slowly than attending in-person. Try to focus on the quality of their education over the quantity of time they engage in distance learning.

5. Establish a study space.

When possible, carve out space in your home for education free of clutter, noise and distractions. Be sure it’s well-lit, equipped with a computer and has all the tools your child may need to complete their schoolwork and attend classes remotely. For younger children learning online, you may need to sit with them while they complete online education.

If you don’t have an internet connection or have problems using technology, let your schools know. They likely have resources to help you stay connected.

6. Schedule social time.

Even if your children are spending more time at home, don’t forget that socialization is an essential part of their education. Allow them to connect with peers in a virtual atmosphere or a socially distanced in-person environment.

7. Explore childcare options.

Even under ordinary circumstances, coordinating childcare can be challenging. If your usual childcare provider isn’t available during the pandemic, consider:

  • Hiring a nanny or babysitter.

  • Sharing childcare duties with friends or neighbors.

  • Asking a grandparent or other family member to look after your children, at least part of the time.

  • Enlisting one of your older children to watch a younger one.

8. Consider virtual solutions.

Entrepreneurs have created innovative ways to help families manage during the pandemic. For example, two companion services, SitterStream and SchoolStream, emerged after the COVID crisis with virtual options for childcare and education. Research how technology could provide solutions for your situation.

9. Seek out community childcare options.

Find out if any local government, nonprofit or business programs are available to assist with your childcare. In some areas, government agencies have set up emergency childcare centers.

Some nonprofit agencies have stayed open to meet childcare demands. And you may find for-profit childcare centers offering free services for some parents, such as those deemed essential workers.

10. Stay in touch with your child’s school.

Even if your child’s school closes, their teacher is still responsible for a student’s curriculum and education. If you don’t get the necessary guidance and educational resources, be sure to communicate with your child’s teacher or principal.

If you feel isolated or uncertain about managing remote education, check with your child’s school staff for guidance. There may be additional school services that your child qualifies for while learning from home.

How can I get more help during the COVID-19 crisis?

As you’re managing childcare, homeschooling and parenting, be patient with your family and yourself. Find time to:

  • Get enough sleep

  • Take breaks throughout the day

  • Exercise regularly

  • Maintain a healthy diet

Some schools may continue meal services during dismissal or closings to allow families to pick up food. Tap into available services that can reduce your stress and workload.

Here are some resources to help manage your health, mental stress and financial hardship:


Tiffany Ray