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Throw in worrying about your childs psychological well-being, and your stress levels are no doubt through the roof.
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If any of this sounds familiar, youre not alone in your experience.
Even some experts in this space arent having the easiest time navigating parenthood in the pandemic.
Dont worryaccording to Harper, we are all learning as we go.
When it comes to kids, what might they be feeling at this time?
E.H.:Children and youth may be experiencing a number of feelings.
Its natural (and okay) for adults to beanxious and worriedin these uncertain and stressful times.
What is the best way to talk to kids of various ages about whats going on?
He doesnt fully grasp this explanation yet, but I tell him anyway.
I also let him know that we can talk to friends and family viavideo chat.
I then turn his attention to a new subject because distraction works well with children this age.
Middle schoolers are likely to be more vocal in their quest to understand what is happening.
Doing so offers them a sense of control over one aspect in their life during this time.
What is the best way to support kids emotionally right now?
Do they need structure or more flexibility than usual?
How do you weigh creating structure against everything else you have going on?
A daily schedule is one example.
I venture to keep roughly the same lunchtime and nap time that he has at day care.
This is what I do during holiday breaks as well.
I usually work or take quiet time for myself during his nap time.
At school, Friday is pizza day, so I do the same at home.
Doing little things like this helps to create a sense of normalcy.
Some of these adjustments have been based on his interests/responses to the activities.
What if a parent just cant juggle it all: work, homeschooling, sanity?
If parents cant juggle it all, its okay!
We must be gentle with ourselves and give ourselves grace.
Encourage children to practice self-care and listen to their feedback about what they want their days to be like.
Work together to plan their days.
The first thing parents can do is not feel bad.
We are navigating a pandemic!
Generally, children in different age ranges will experience different reactions.
Changes in eating andsleeping habitsare also common signs of stress in children this age.
Like younger children, they may be clingier than usual and experience eating and sleeping changes.
Their concentration levels may also take a hit.
Again, these are just some of the signs that children may begin to exhibit.
What are some resources for overwhelmed parents right now?
Especially if they have children with special needs who usually get a lot of help and fulfillment from school?
I would look into virtual support groups such as Facebook groups for parents dealing with similar issues.
These may be especially helpful for coping and finding resources in your area.
And, if possible, stay connected to your childrens schools.
Parents can also take advantage of companies and online platforms currently offering free learning opportunitiesPBS LearningMediais one.
How do you think this experience could affect children long-term?
This is a complex question.
One reason its hard to answer is because we do not know whensocial/physical distancingwill be over.
