This time in our community has many of us perplexed. The media seemingly has done its job of getting us information, while also playing on our emotions for the entertainment factor. I’m with you in frustration, like many other moms, trying to navigate the facts from the propaganda.
As a mother and educator, I am choosing to look at this time as a gift with my babies. I know it is presenting many complications with work and school closures. It is my hope that parents would truly be intentional with their children’s time over the next 4 weeks. Here are just a few ideas from the heart of a teacher.
Take care of your kids’ emotional health.
Like us, they are overwhelmed and looking for answers and truth in all the media coverage. Limit their data usage through your internet provider. (Yes this is a thing.) You can control how many hours a day they have access to WiFi.
Keep your kids’ minds engaged.
There are many sites available to you as resources for learning. I recommend Reading A-Z. It covers all grade levels Pre-k-12th. Scholastic has a free site. These sites will give you ready made lessons for your younger kids and provide information for the older ones that could help them complete a research paper on a person in their future career field.
Create a daily schedule for your kids.
Children thrive in routines and develop healthy habits in structure. One of the things that will make them feel secure is knowing what is expected and what they are doing everyday. This will also help when they transition back to school.
Make memories with your kids
This time, though unexpected, can truly be a gift. Start new traditions. Find ways like family trivia night or family karaoke (you can use YouTube) to enjoy each other. Take time to talk to them about their thoughts. In the busyness of life, we can easily begin to miss the subtle changes in our kids as they grow. Let this time be an intentional time for reconnection.
I truly believe we will all be happy and healthy through this. Let’s continue to remain informed and vigilant with our health.
