One Room Schools – Counting Blessings

Without minimizing the challenges and without glamorizing the current situation, it might be time for us to take that much talked about proverbial pause and consider one of the most important benefits of being trapped in an episode of a one-room school in the Little House on the Prairie. 

Highlighted  as the primary benefit is the uninterrupted time with children.  During the nine months of the school year, multiple hours are spent in activities related to school (e.g., getting ready for school, time in the classroom, participation in afterschool sports or other school related activities, and homework). This leaves families with few precious minutes, sometimes no more than an hour or two a day, to engage with their youngsters, in effect leaving parenting to a larger societal system.  

Parents have said that this simpler time, with fewer competing interests, have obliged families to play and work together as a unit instead of as separate entities flying frantically in multiple directions. This promotes feeling of belongingness and interdependence among children, stressing responsibility for each other.  And sometimes there is a tussle and disagreements, and the process of resolutions and problem solving are important aspects of socialization, employing skills that must be learned. It also provides the structure and opportunity to focus on family values. 

Furthermore, parents no longer ask the question, “What did you learn in school today.” Parents know exactly what was taught and learned, providing opportunities for broader discussions and interactions, enhancing life lessons. 

And just face it. Even though teachers are wonderful, caring, important adults in your children’s lives, no one loves your children more than you do. No one has their best interest at heart than the parent. This time as a family unit gives a chance to connect in ways that have not existed for years. For some parents, this time is a blessing for all the above reasons.

Besides, just think, in this modern one-room school, in contrast to earlier times, you as the teacher do not have to fill lamps, clean chimneys, bring a bucket of water and a scuttle of coal with you in the morning, make your pens sharp, and wear at least two petticoats. You are very fortunate, indeed. It could be worse.

I invite comments, suggestions, ideas. 

If you have questions that I might be able to answer generally, please email me. Please, keep in mind that this blog is for suggestions that may or may not work. Here is the disclaimer, professional advice requires much more in-depth information and contact and is beyond the scope of this blog.  email: gail.coulter@outlook.com.