Hi Susan...we never did it but I've spent many hours thinking about it.
I wouldn't worry about getting the academics in but Id be more concerned with finding something for an 8 year old to do all day. I've thought about family members, day care centers that might welcome a jr. Staff and farm work.
Is your job the sort where she could tag a long? Other times and cultures where Adults can be productive while babies and children can be around sure looked appealing to me during the first 10 years of parenting.
I will say that things have never been as bad as 2nd grade so I'm hoping you are just around the corner from better days.
Love and more love
Grinity
