Digital learning isn’t just convenient; it’s effective
By Carleen Haylett, CEO of EnrichedHQ
The day my son “graduated” from daycare I felt like I’d hit the financial jackpot, until reality hit. Suddenly, as a single mom without local family support, orchestrating afterschool care became my second full-time job. The costs of overnight nannies for work trips, and even fun days out were eye-opening. Summer breaks? An entirely new level of planning and spending. While I’m grateful for the resources and options available, the constant juggle, potential for plans to fall apart, and the financial strain is overwhelming.
Now that my son no longer needs sitters, I’m facing a new challenge: traditional education just doesn’t cut it. It misses teaching kids what’s needed for real life and igniting passions. So here I am, cobbling together programs on investing, debate, social skills, and more, alongside giving exposure to things matching his interests. Hours spent researching, scheduling, and stressing, all while juggling work duties. And the kicker? Spending heaps on programs he might lose interest in or that don’t meet expectations. It’s exhausting and expensive, but the quest to equip him for a joyful, successful life goes on.
Diving into the world of online educational marketplaces was a game-changer for us. By 6th
grade, my son has evolved past the “keep ’em busy” phase to craving more sophisticated
learning experiences. His interests sharpened, pushing us into the deep end of specialized
programs. This meant more detective work, more digital spelunking through vast internet caves, more Excel acrobatics to compare everything from timing to curriculum and safety—all during prime work hours, of course.
Then we stumbled upon what I fondly call a pandemic silver lining: the revelation that digital
learning isn’t just convenient; it’s effective. While you can’t exactly dribble a basketball online, you can dive into math, writing, and coding without ever leaving home. This is a win-win, sparing me the daily logistical gymnastics of chauffeuring him around.
The perks of online education marketplaces for school-aged wizards like my son? They’re
lifesavers for parents, too. Here’s why:
* They do the scouting and vetting, lifting the heavy load off my shoulders.
* They brilliantly bridge that awkward gap between the school bell and the end of my
workday.
* They cut to the chase, connecting us with top-tier programs that hit the mark.
It’s like having a personal educational concierge at your fingertips, saving time, reducing stress, and, frankly, keeping me sane.
As we continue pushing through the ever-evolving landscape of his care and education, the
adventure is far from over. The leap from traditional daycare to navigating the complex world of school-age kids’ needs has been a roller coaster of triumphs and trials. Yet, it’s a path paved with invaluable lessons about adaptability, resilience, and the power of modern solutions to age-old dilemmas.
Embracing the chaos, celebrating the small victories, and always keeping an eye out for the
next educational treasure, we march forward. Together, my son and I are crafting a future
brimming with possibilities, laughter, and learning. It’s our quest not just for knowledge, but for joy and fulfillment in a world that’s constantly changing. And as daunting as it may sometimes seem, it’s a journey we’re thrilled to be on, armed with a little humor, a lot of love, and an unquenchable thirst for the next great discovery.