Ms. Hales' Counseling Website
Helping our kids and ourselves cope during difficult times isn't easy, here are some resources that can help...
Remember it is normal for kids to act out, regress in their behavior (do things they haven't done in years) and be more emotional than usual. Just like the grown ups around them, the stress and worry they feel can be overwhelming and they may not have the words to express how they are feeling. You can help by offering love and support when those big emotions bubble up.
Helping Kids Cope
First Aid for Feelings: A Workbook to Help Kids Cope During the Coronavirus Pandemic is a free workbook from the Yale Child Study Center–Scholastic Collaborative, written by child development expert Denise Daniels. This comforting resource is designed to help children alleviate stress and anxiety and to provide a sense of control during changing times. This workbook will encourage children to express their thoughts and feelings while providing families with simple strategies to help kids handle emotions.
How to Talk to Children About the Coronavirus
Some helpful tips from the CDC on how to talk about Covid-19 with children
Protecting Your Mental Health
During Coronavirus
Check out this article for ways to take care of your mental health in the face of uncertainty
This is an illustration I created for myself (as a fellow parent) to remind me of the tools I can use to take care of myself while practicing social distancing.
Maybe it will resonate for you too?
Outbreaks Can Be Stressful!
Some helpful tips from the CDC on how to manage stress during times of uncertaintly
How to Handle Regression
Wondering why your child is returning to behaviors they have long outgrown? Regression is common during times of stress. Check out this article to learn ways you can support your child with these behaviors as they come up.