When staying at home is not so simple

Instagram's effort to get us to chill at the crib

Doctors and government officials of all ranks across the globe are urging and demanding that we engage in social distancing practices in order to slow the spread of this latest virus. That makes sense, most other of my opinions notwithstanding, especially given the contagion rate and the novelty of this coronavirus. However...

Some years ago I had a student who would run away from home to come to school. His guardian would text me often about how he was acting at home and wanted me to do whatever I could to help her out. He had another version of events.

Going even further back to my previous youth work life, I was in a position that no mandated reporter ever wants to be in. Without giving the horrific details about this young child, I made the call that I had to make. Officials visited the child's home that day. The parent came the next day and told me and my staff where we could all go and how to get there!

Even recently, there are at least 3 stories or parts of stories that I could share, where staying home is not as simple as many opining on social media or as some officials, journalists, and others make it out to be.

Outlets and advocates are speaking out about the potential and actual rise in domestic violence occurrences during these uncertain times. This includes a potential rise in child abuse. I understand that what I am sharing may be the exception and not the rule for society at large. I get that. But this is many people's, including children's, reality in "normal" times. Imagine how stay-at-home orders may exacerbate the already stressful situations some endure. Add these anxious times to the mix.

Even if the abuse isn't physical, sometimes the stress of life creates tense situations at home. Their go-to would normally be sports, bookstores, the mall, the park...school. Am I pushing for opening up the country by Easter? Not at all! We're here now. Neither do I mean to suggest that those who are "all CAPS-ing" their posts and cussin' at the world through their phones, don't care. I'm not suggesting that at all.  All I am saying is be vigilant and cognizant of those for whom staying home is extremely difficult or worse.

Some students just miss school...

School to many is a “constant” and for some the safest and most “normal” place they know...trust me!

— Mr. Flemming, M.Ed. 👨🏽‍🏫📚🗺🌍📖 (@MrFlemmingMEd) March 25, 2020