No matter what we all may individually say about this time that we are in right now with COVID-19, we can probably agree that if nothing else, this is a very unique time. A major shift has occurred. While schools will open again, until that time, many of us are navigating this new space where we are working from home and assuming the role of being teacher of academic curriculum to our children. Many schools have provided online learning access, but it is not exactly the same as being in the classroom. To that end, many parents and caregivers must fill in the gaps and assume the “teacher” role. This can be very challenging.

Take it one day at a time. This is new for EVERYONE, even the children. So, pace yourself. Breathe. We WILL get through this. If you have an agenda from your child’s school that needs to be followed, follow it. Put the children on a schedule. Maintaining a certain level of order and structure in your home can help to keep a certain balance going, especially when the pace of things outside of the home–keeps changing.

Give yourself a break. This is important because your role in the home has shifted. You’re wearing a few new hats now! So, take all the help you can get. Just know that, academically, the children will be OK. You may be surprised how efficiently you will be able to pull together the resources that your child needs at this time. Take a little time to avail yourself to the websites that are offering free academic help. Your child’s school has probably already recommended certain sites that support their curriculum.

The children are already so tech savvy, that once you get the websites that you feel will best meet their academic needs and show it to them, they’re off and clicking through everything– becoming familiar and you’re sitting there saying, “Wait! What did you just do?!?! How did you get THERE so FAST?” Bottom line, avail yourself to the resources out there. Take some time to study them, and let the children have at it. During that time, get some of your own work done or make your and their schedules up for the next day, if you hadn’t already. Or just go eat some lunch!

Pray. Enough said.