Parents adjust to quarantine

By Anisha Dhakal,

BlueDevilHUB.com Editor–

Many parents have been spending more time with their families during quarantine with students home from college, in addition to their high school students leaving a packed household at all times.

For families that have kids returning home from college, it has been a more difficult transition to online school since many students have grown more independent in their time away from home. With the shutdown of schools and universities throughout the nation, students have been forced to continue their online schooling from home.

The lack of structure has also been difficult for many to manage. The Klinebergs learned to balance their daily after school activities before quarantine, but due to the uncertain schedules of classes and meetings that do not align, it has been a difficult transition for the family. 

Mom of three, Joy Klineberg, feels that distractions around the house are often difficult to always keep under control due to irregular schedules.

“There’s always something going on […] the boys were playing golf in my kitchen for a bit and making their TikTok videos together,” Klineberg said. “One time Maren was on a conference call for Spanish and of course that when the chickens decided to lay eggs… her mic was on and everyone in the class was so confused.” 

Families such as Certified Restoration Drycleaning Network manager Puja Niraula’s have had a different transition as both herself and her husband have been going to work during this time. 

“I’m glad that I’m able to go to work because I know that not everyone is as fortunate as I am and it really helps me feel less constricted because I am not at home all day long,” Niraula said. 

The Niraulas have had to change some of their daily activities such as extra measures of cleaning to prevent the spread of COVID-19 into their house, a common sighting amongst many families. 

“Every other weekend or so, we always went on a fun family trip somewhere, whether it’s to hike, sightsee, or visit family members, but due to the pandemic it has prevented us from doing these things so we feel cooped up inside,” Niraula said. 

Niraula and Klineberg both agree that the most difficult part of the quarantine is watching their kids frustrated about their new normal. 

“Every parent wants the best for their kids and it’s hard to see them struggle with something that is out of their control and my control and will be shaping their entire life,” Klineberg said.