‘Feeling defeated’: Kindergarten mom talks of struggle with remote learning days after school start

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As most Massachusetts schools gear up for the start of the school year, districts in other states already have a week or two under their belts. Boston 25 News talked with our sister station in Charlotte, NC to find out how families there are coping.

One mother shared her story, saying that she and her kindergartner are already struggling with remote learning, just four days into the school year.

“We are all feeling defeated right now,” Lauren Palmer said.

“I want to be honest on how ugly and hard this is,” she added.

Her five-year-old son, Jennings, starts school at 7:45 a.m., engages with the teacher and takes breaks. But she says the days are still long.

“It’s just particularly painful as a kindergarten parent,” Palmer said. “Kindergarten is such a milestone year and they are losing out on so much.”

“He told me, ‘When are the buildings going to open? I hate school on the iPad. I want to see the teacher,’” Palmer said.

Palmer said she knows how difficult it could be for other parents.

“I have resources of time to offer my child,” she said. “I cannot imagine what it must be like for a mom who is trying to work or a single mom.”

Pediatrician Dr. Ranya Chakra said “brain breaks” are crucial, especially for younger learners.

Chakra also said taking a computer screen outside helps.

“Taking them outside showing them things in the environment -- you learned about these colors today, let’s learn them outside,” Chakra said.

Palmer said she is trying to make the best of the situation.

“I want other parents to know they are not alone,” Palmer said.

Boston 25 Back to School Coverage

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