Question: On a regular week, in normal times, I have so much on my plate. Now I am expected to care for my infant (no babysitter), keep house (no cleaning help), work from home, entertain my kids, and be in charge of their homeschooling. This while my husband is also expected to work full time from home. When I hear people talk about how this time offers us opportunities to learn with our children, quality time, etc.. I wonder what I am missing? Is there some sort of trick that others have that I haven't heard about or am I just not as capable?
 
You are not missing anything and are totally normal. The scenario you describe sounds similar to mine (minus the infant) as well as that of so many other homes. It is an enormous task for parents to juggle homeschooling kids, keeping them busy, and deal with their own anxiety and uncertainties. If we are able to survive the day to day challenges and somehow manage to do all that you describe, we are (unsung) heroes. May Hashem bentch the great parents and teachers out there who with weary bodies and challenged resources continue to put their last bit of strength toward educating their children. I'd like to utilize the remainder of this column to offer general tidbits to survive during these challenging times. 
 
 
1) Recognize that some days will be easier and some days will be harder and this is all normal.  We live in uncertain times and are all anxious and grieving. In this abnormal situation, anger is normal and anxiety is normal. Learn to ride the wave of the emotions and realize that they are ok. It is a time for compassion not only to those we care about but to ourselves as well. You will lose your cool and that is ok, but find some time to calm down, be empathic, and give the hug.
 
2) Keep in mind that children will pick up on parent's emotional state. Where possible, it is worthwhile and important for to engage in their own self care (reaching out to others, exercise, hobbies). Calmer parents make calmer children and although full calmness is not possible, every step is a plus. 
 
3) Try to keep as much structure as possible. No matter what children may say, they need predictability and regularity. They should be getting dressed and follow routines, even if the routines are somewhat relaxed and flexible. Setting general times for schoolwork and recreation is wise (and there will be exceptions to this too).  
 
4) Try to do family bonding and remain positive. Cook and bake together, play games, use art and humor, listen to music, clean, make family albums, etc. Despite the additional responsibilities alluded to in your letter (which are all true), we are home more. We do save some time on traveling, less hours in school, and less simchas and communal/social events. 
 
5) Finally, allow children to express feelings. Ask them how they are doing and encourage them to draw or write. Have occasional heart to heart talks if they are open to it. They may need to release pent up emotions. 
 
May Hashem continue to provide us with an extra dose of strength during these unusual times.