Helping Kids Cope During Stressful Times
***This post was written during COVID-19, but the ideas and exercises expressed remain relevant and invaluable during both personal and communal times of stress for our students.***
This past week has already been such a blur, with school cancellations and constant updates. We're showing up to let you know that we are right there with you, trying to navigate "at-home learning", and helping kids cope during this complicated time. Here are some practical tips to help you & your families.
1) Talk about it
If your child or student asks about COVID-19 [or any stressful event], don't avoid the topic. Listen to what your child knows already from hearing other grown-ups or kids talking about it. Then calmly help them discuss the difference between facts and rumors by checking reputable sources. Talking about it too extensively might cause more anxiety, but providing a space to share their fears and questions will be helpful.
2) Help kids feel their agency
It's helpful to give kids tangible things they can do to prevent sickness. With COVID and other health concerns, they can take action by washing their hands, getting lots of sleep, eating healthy foods, drinking water, and helping disinfect the house.
3) Keep structure and routine as much as possible
You can use this schedule or have fun creating your own. Start the morning with the Good Day Cha-Cha to set the tone, go on a walk, then have a craft/art time. If you need ideas, you can use activity pages from our Simple SEL Curriculum. Then, based on what grade your child is in, you can find fun, educational activities on Teachers Pay Teachers to help with academic time.
There’s also an amazing website called BrainPop that is offering access to families & schools. I use BrainPop videos often in my classroom, and this would be a huge asset to your at-home learning toolkit. They provide videos on subjects including Science, Social Studies, English, Math, Arts & Music, Health & SEL, Engineering & Tech and more. Most of the videos provide a quiz, worksheets, and extra activities to go with them. This is an amazing resource, though it is usually only provided to teachers through their school district.
4) Get up and moving
If you're able to go outside, spend the day walking, riding bikes, and getting some fresh air. If you need to stay indoors, here are some ideas.
GoNoodle has a plethora of videos for exercise, movement, academics, dancing, etc. They even have a series called "Indoor Recess" that I've used in my classroom before. They burn energy in no time! Also, our videos on Youtube are helpful for getting kids moving.
5) Strengthen coping skills
Instead of trying to hide your anxiety, be honest with your kids by reassuring them that it's totally normal to feel stress and worry during a time like this. Try a meditation practice or some mindfulness activities together, or learn a new deep breathing technique. Practicing yoga is another great way to focus and process emotions.
Be sure to take advantage of our new expanded Simple SEL Activity Book!
-Paige & Adrien-
