A Little Note:

Hello.

Welcome to this little pocket of the internet where I have at least some kind of control during an international season of uncertainty. If you ever wondered to what extent you had your control issues, anger management, anxiety, depression, ____(fill in the blank)____ in check, you're probably get a good idea right now. This is the kind of situation where I'm not sure there's a pair of pants large enough to tuck my crazy into. But hey–we're in it together (socially acceptable distancing together, but still–camaraderie, hey-O!

This page is designed for parents and caregivers who were not previously exclusively homeschooled and are now without some semblance of schedule provided by daycare, babysitters, extracurricular activities, sports, and public, private, hybrid, or co-op schools. Whether or not you are currently working from home (salute!), an essential business and have to work (thank you, thank you, thank you!), working for an employer who is still in the stone age and is requiring you to go into the workplace (I'm giving your boss the "mom glare"), currently jobless (I'm giving the government a big ole stink eye), or a stay at home parent or caregiver (aka chef, chauffeur, housekeeper, room parent, personal assistant, PTA volunteer, laundry master, ad nauseum), THIS IS A BIG TRANSITION. Also IT'S OK NOT TO HAVE YOUR *ish!* TOGETHER.

Here's the pretty amazing thing about (most) kids. They are usually much more resilient than adults. They are usually more adaptable than adults. Work with them to figure out a schedule that works for them–and you–and give it a couple weeks. Ideally the schedule would involve things of normalcy like eating regular meals, good hygiene, putting on pants and a shirt (changing from last night's pjs to a new pair counts, ok!). Add in maybe an hour or two of constructive learning. Maybe this is an online module given by your school. Maybe it's some worksheets. Or reading a book together. Taking a nature walk. Watching an educational TV show (why yes, a Magic School Bus marathon counts!). Add in lots of time for free play. Indoors and out (if you're able). No one except the sanctimommies over there (yeah, calling y'all out) are going to judge you for excessive screen time. If you can, add in space for a little quiet time where reading, journaling, or naps are strongly. Encourage independence!

Now. For you! I hope wherever you are you are giving yourself a lot of extra grace and kindness. This past Saturday (March 21), Pope Francis made a comment during morning mass, and this little part stood out to me especially for families during this time.

Perhaps the farthest they can go out is their balcony. … May they know how to find a way of communicating well, of building loving relationships within the family. And that they might know how to conquer the anguish of this moment together in the family. We pray for peace in families today during this crisis, and for creativity.

Whatever your beliefs or faith practices, seeking peace and creativity may seem like the furthest accessible things to you right now. But I truly believe that we are all in this together. Reach out to your family, friends, and community for support. Even if you can't change circumstances, you may perhaps find reassurance in knowing you are not in this alone. Seek peace, for yourself, your family, and with others. And don't underestimate the gift of creativity.

Peace be with you.

Liza

(PS. This site is obviously not professionally run or have any fees. But I greatly appreciate crowdsourcing any cool ideas, websites, or links you may wish to contribute. Cheers!)