A latchkey kid is used to describe a child who is left alone for part of the day before a parent returns from work. It was coined “latchkey” in the 1940’s, and had grown in popularity during the 1980’s as a number of children experienced it. The term is often given a negative light because of the responsibility that is placed on the child while home alone, but the cost of provision and momentary self supervision is the only way most families are able to get by. Like the latch key kid, the latchkey learner is ultimately left to guide their day to day education without much help throughout the day.
Nikki Simpkins of Queens, New York explained her view on her kids having to take charge of their own learning path at home. “I have peace of mind knowing they are safe at home since I’m the one that is the most exposed in our household. We get to listen to their teachers during class and observe how the kids are managing their day and what they are exposed to while I work,“ she said. “The Kids are able to help each other when I’m unable, which alleviates some of the headache and guilt.”
The decision to continue homeschooling has many parents struggling to find a balance between work and school sessions with their children. The parents, siblings or other caregivers that are present aren’t able to fully devote their time in two places. While teachers are conducting virtual classes, it’s nearly impossible for them to meet the needs of every student in the allotted time given, especially for young children. The person who is watching the child is often unable to provide and teach their children simultaneously. Kids are suddenly left to figure out this new normal alone, navigating software, accessing homework and sitting still long enough to follow directions.
Parents, in addition to teachers, have had to figuratively release the educational keys they once had and allow their children to become the holder and director of their educational future. The upside of this virtual transition is the amount of independence it has instilled.
Parents have been forced to make decisions that families in generations before them never had to make. For many, the fear of Covid-19 and all that comes along with it has left parents uneasy and staying at home has been the safest option despite the collision of worlds. “I am concerned about my daughter applying to high school and that process; with these uncharted waters or as I like to call it ‘the new world order’ the effects of this new learning space makes me uneasy,” said Simpkins.
Children have and will continue to adapt to the places that we make safe and accessible. With the right keys, children will always be able to unlock the doors of endless possibilities, even in the midst of solitude and change.
