BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Distance learning means more time for families to bond, sometimes over the challenges of virtual schooling, and other times over something even bigger — in this case, the power of positivity.

“Especially being home with them all day, you see the ins and outs of your kids, and sometimes they really surprise you,” said Jamie Schmalenberger, a Brevard County parent.

Most days, 7-year-old Jemma taps and 9-year-old Jude builds.

“I make a lot of things, mostly like cars,” Jude said.

Jake and Jamie Schmalenberger keep the house going, and while sounds of a typical household echo throughout the house, the coronavirus pandemic has brought new challenges, including distance learning.

It took a motherly reminder to jog their memories that they’re fortunate to have laptops, supplies, and Wi-Fi.

“They’d be complaining and tired, but I’d say, you have it easy. You’re lucky I’m home with you and able to sit here and help you,” Jamie Schmalenberger said.

The kids’ fortune blossomed into an idea — a performance to raise money for kids not as fortunate as Jemma and Jude.

Jemma summed up the idea in two sentences: “Because of COVID, they can’t go to their school. And if they’re homeless, how can they do their school work without getting school stuff?”

That question led to improvisation.  Jemma’s dad was taken aback.

“Jemma just went up there and started singing, making up the words right off the cuff,” said Jake Schmalenberger.

Jude got in on the act, taking up the box drum, and that Facebook Live event took in $260 for Brevard Schools Foundation.  The Schmalenbergers were surprised.

“I thought we would raise a few dollars, but in the end, we raised a bunch of money,” Jake Schmalenberger said.

Doing good all on their own was music to their parents’ ears.

“We talked a lot about giving back.  That message got through.  There is still good happening in the community,” they said.