Let me start by saying that I didn't think virtual learning was a walk in the park, but I didn't think it was the crazy, juggling act that it can be sometimes. And, the more children you have learning from home, the more meeting schedules, breaks, and assignments you have to keep track of all the while trying to do your own work.
Google classroom is pretty cool, but each teacher uses it differently and if you are a grandparent trying to help out, the learning curve can be interesting, especially if you aren't tech savvy and some school districts aren't even using Google classroom.
If you are tech savvy, you still need to know what your child is doing and where they are supposed to be, especially if they are in elementary school and if your children are in different grades, they each have their own lunchtime and breaks, so your day feels like a game of Tetris, just trying to fit everything in to clear levels, or in this case, get to the next Live meeting.
During breaks, it can be challenging to maintain a "we are still in school" mentality especially when you have, say a 5-year old, who has already dropped their headphones on the floor three times, 'accidently' left the live meeting twice, and as soon as the meeting is over doesn't remember what the teacher said to do.
I have a whole new level of respect for our teachers, parents, and our children as we all try to navigate this new world. Everyone is doing the best they can and none of this is easy. So, if you know a teacher or a parent who is dealing with virtual learning, buy them a gift card, send them flowers, or just be there for them every time they text you emojis and words that we probably couldn't publish here.
Main photo: Getty Images
Photo in article: Beth Christy