Niverville’s three schools recently had hundreds of children roaming the halls—and now they stand barren, except for teachers. This means all those children are at home, trying their best to follow some sort of system or schedule to stay educated, informed, and entertained in this uncertain time. It’s a huge change for everyone involved.

One such family is the Kosmans. Parents Kelsey and Dan have two children, a nine-year-old daughter and a seven-year-old son.

“We are still adjusting to our new normal of a slower-paced lifestyle,” Kelsey says. “Although hockey and ringette were coming to an end when the virus hit, we were gearing up for spring sports.”

The couple also work full-time. Dan is a sheet metal journeyman, and as of now his work remains ongoing. Kelsey runs her own company, Dollhouse Design, in which she offers expertise in interior design and drafting. Since COVID-19 arrived, her work has changed.

“Because of social distancing, I have had to cancel all meetings,” she admits. “But I have been doing virtual meetings whenever possible.”

Being self-employed allows Kelsey to help the children out with school at home. The children’s Grades Two and Four elementary school teachers have sent home workbooks, alongside daily emails with different ideas and resources.

“I’m having to learn a whole new level of organization and patience,” Kelsey says. “We are focusing on reading and math, and each day have been trying to do something fun while learning something new.”

While learning is an important part of childhood development, teachers have encouraged parents not to stress about teaching everything perfectly.

Officially, schools in Manitoba are due to open again on April 13. However, at this point it’s hard to say if that will actually come to pass, due to coronavirus cases rising in the province.

So what’s the hardest part of parenting in this uncertain time?

“It’s trying to keep a sense of normalcy for our kids,” Kelsey says. “Trying to protect them from the panic and fear in the world right now. We also miss our families and friends.”

Although it’s been difficult, especially for a family of extroverts, Kelsey acknowledges that the best part of social distancing has been the time they now have to reflect on what’s really important in life.