Homeschool Hell: The Sequel
Back in lockdown and back to home schooling, despite the government repeatedly saying:
“Keeping education open is a top priority.”
My WhatsApp and Twitter feeds are a torrent of rage, terror, and despair—laced with very dark humour. And in 75% of households, homeschooling is delivered by women.
The vlog this week is my take on what we need from the government strategy to reopen schools. ASAP.
⚠️ I’m cross, so it features both swearing and the hot Duke from Bridgerton.
But also below, by client request, is a list of things that businesses can do to support working parents, until this infernal nightmare fades.
Take a minute to think through your team: who does this impact and how? Make sure you understand what people are up against—especially single parents, those with unwell relatives, families with very small kids and closed nurseries, big kids climbing the walls with frustration… Try not to assume too much—ask people how it's going for them.
Offer extra time off, especially now as routines are getting set up. Zurich has done this as have the BBC, the Police, and AXA. Exceptional days, extra leave, or just some clusters of hours. All of it helps.
Encourage team leaders to support what's realistic and practical, this isn't a time for wild ambition.
Tailor communications: allow cameras to be off, book shorter calls, send fewer emails, reduce bureaucracy, record important calls and announcements, plan longer lead times, and welcome kids who appear on calls.
Set up or convene parent and carer support groups so colleagues can share experiences and support each other. You’ll be amazed how much a short chat with others in the same boat helps.
IT support: extra devices, printers/printer ink, wifi upgrades.
Online tutors and entertainers—especially for SEN kids.
Mental health awareness: share resources and where to go for help if it gets too much.
And if you have the resources, consider: birthday deliveries for kids, care packs for struggling parents, magazines or puzzles for kids… or even a Friday meal delivery to celebrate everyone surviving the week.
The most important thing though is, of course, to make it OK by being supportive. Ask questions, laugh at the madness, be a remote shoulder to cry on. Just don’t send around a memo about the importance of family and then book a two hour Zoom at 6pm. If you do, don’t be surprised when people you depend on resign in defeat.
Hope that helps; if your boss isn’t convinced, have them give me a call 😉
Sending strength, my friends.
-Christine x
Next week: exec coach Audrey Wiggin back to help us find some positive vibes.
Week after: we’re diving into the science of happiness to see how it might help.
