These are unprecedented times for all of us including you the parents, the teachers and most importantly the students. Stability, routine and structure are known to provide relief from anxiety. Can e-learning replace a school day? No. Did any of us, like in so many other fields that we have been thrown into, have the expertise or experience? None of us, as parents or professionals, saw this coming, no one. But now that this global pandemic has established itself we can choose to be strong and calm for our children.
If the children are keeping up with the e-learning we will have them back on track in no time, once school reopens. What we will not be able to fix is going to be the socio-emotional trauma that these children may suffer due to high stress levels and anxiety of this global crisis.Remember not to be afraid to ask for professional help and support.
Do check out the AQI, look at the night sky and take a moment to ponder. Hold on to your faith, keep a steady routine, self reflect, keep caring and loving and this too shall pass!
Here are some tips, not just for your children but for you too!
Read
Studies have shown that just six minutes of pleasure-readingcan help reduce stress levels by up to 60 percent. It also increases compassion to another’s suffering — as well as perhaps to one’s own — which can be a major aid to self-growth and healing, as well as helping to decrease anxiety and depression.
Write
Multiple research studies suggest that writing about worries can help cope with daily stressors and develop problem-solving skills. This writing does not need to be checked for punctuation, spelling or any types of mistakes.
Be Active
Physical activity helps increase the production of your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. This focus on a single task, and the resulting energy and optimism, also help you remain calmer and clearer in everything you do.
Create
Studies have shown that expressing oneself through art can help with depression and anxiety. This is regardless of artistic experience or talent, so don’t be shy to experiment.
Play
Playing together is known to help family bonding. It enhances the importance of collaboration and builds not just vocabulary but confidence and curiosity too. Children connect and refine pathways in their brain. They develop social skills, communicate and collaborate better.
Communicate
No one can know what is actually bothering you; children usually assume the worst and hold themselves responsible. Share your concerns and problems through talking and listening, minus the anxiety. Pay attention, make eye contact, keep it simple, honest and age appropriate. Communication is the key to all successful relationships.
This is an opportunity to practically teach kids interpersonal skills. Have family circle time after dinner. Everyone loves to listen to stories and sharing memories. It is a beautiful way to improve relationships.
Do not underestimate the resilience and ability of children. Delegate tasks and share expectations that are age appropriate so they feel responsible and included.
“If you want to walk far, walk together”.
-Bushra Irfan