Most teenagers’ biggest stressors of the day are finishing a history worksheet or deciding what to wear to the next football game. But for a significant number of students, the end of the school day begins a new start of challenges. Beyond the typical social hurdles of high school, these students carry the weight of being a caregiver, balancing both school work and family responsibilities.
Many students around RM deal with significant challenges at home, outside of homework. They are responsible for what is typically considered a paid job, but for some, it is what has to be done for the productivity of their family. This includes taking care of siblings, elders and chores around the house.
For freshman Kenndra Gomez, this family responsibility has been her reality for the past three years caring for her six-year-old brother, helping with his homework, and feeding him every day after school. Though she is currently carrying out her own homework in addition to helping her brother, it has become rather difficult for Gomez to engage in sports activities or meet up with her friends. Despite this, Gomez feels that caregiving has been a good experience for her. “It’s making me responsible and helping me learn how to multitask,” she said. She believes it could assist teen care in some manner, such as extending the deadline to complete their homework
Meanwhile, senior Aditya Pradhan views his responsibility through the lens of leadership. Tasked with assisting in the care of his ten-year-old sister, Pradhan maintains his balance by adhering to a daily routine and has learned how to deal with his sister’s tantrums calmly. “Usually, face-to-face is better because she can be clear with me and I can be clear with her,” Pradhan said. He also explains that caring for a family member has not impacted his social life,“I also have my friends, which have different dynamics in terms of communicating,” Pradhan said.
Both teenagers agreed that their experiences with caregiving have actually increased the bonding in their families. “It has really strengthened my relationship with my brother,” Gomez said. Pradhan highlighted the importance of understanding and being patient with his sister. Being a teen caregiver is not easy. However, this experience often helps them develop a sense of responsibility, understanding, and strong family ties. Gomez’ words of wisdom for people like herself: “Be strong, and know that there are people going through the same things as you.” she said.
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