Tag: pandemic

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School Tips for Families and Children

Starting school in 2020 is not what we all expected. Many families are having to make big decisions about their children’s future, which is tremendously difficult. Schools are reopening but that doesn’t mean children and families are all comfortable being back in the school buildings. Some families have to send their children to school in order to work or take care of younger children. The reasons for choosing which school option for your child are endless.

With all that being said, we have to consider how this school year will be affecting our children. They may have a very different academic and social experience this year, and this is something that all parents need to be patient with. Some children will remain isolated from their peers, while others will be around peers but in a much different capacity than before. Learning virtually can be a challenge for students, and parents are having to take on a totally new role in their homes.

Bottom line: everyone is doing the best they can given the current circumstances. There is no right path for anyone, as all choices have pros and cons. However, as a parent you have to make this extremely difficult decision in order to protect yourself, your children, and your community. Do what is best for you and do not allow others to judge your choice.

Lastly, take this time to appreciate the ability to spend more time with your children and family. Focus on what you can control in your life and allow this to be enough for now.

Feel free to reach out if you or your child are having difficulties with the new school year beginning. This time naturally brings our worries and angst, especially during a pandemic.

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Uncertainty During a Pandemic

Wow. I don’t think anyone could have predicted that our lives would have changed so much from a few months ago. Our world and community has been hit hard by the Coronavirus and we are still trying to adjust to the many changes brought on by this illness. I know that everyone’s routines have changed drastically, and this is especially true for our young children and adolescents. Many have not been able to see their friends in months, and this can have a huge impact on their social and emotional development. Now more than ever, it is important for parents to help their children understand what is happening around us in a developmentally appropriate way.

Children need to stay active and exposed to their peers in order to maintain their social and emotional development. I have seen so many families engage in creative and safe ways to support their children in these ways, although it is very difficult! The best thing for families to do is to be open and honest with their children, but try to not tell them that everything is going to be OK. Share your concerns and worries with them, because they are most likely having some of the same thoughts. But also provide them with concrete solutions and tools they can use to help cope with these real worries.

Pay special attention to your adolescents who thrive on their social lives. They are experiencing something that is completely out of their norm, and may not know how to cope with the isolation. If you notice any major changes, talk to your teen. Allow them to feel like they can come to you, because they do not have a lot of other physical contact with others right now.

Overall, do what is best for your family. This may look different from family to family, and that is OK. Take steps to protect yourself and your children, and know that you are doing your best. Find some fun ways to spend quality time with each other at home, whether it means cooking together, going on a family bike ride, having movie night, or scheduling time with each of your children individually. Give yourself grace as a parent and know that it is enough for now.

Here to help or listen if you need anything.

-Caitlin