They need a chance to be responsible and to be creative. My d13 has written a few stories and now is crazy about drawing. She has been really into it for a year. No teachers, she has been teaching herself through books and on line programs. My oldest, S19 was teaching himself German before he stepped in the classroom. He is ahead of his German 2 class in college and is tutoring as well.
Just a couple of examples. My parents couldn't stay home with me either. My mom worked for the phone company and she had better be on her death bed to call in sick. Don't even think of calling in because of your kids.
Kat
Me-53(and learning!) S24, S21, D18, D17 Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming. Dory