One of the most difficult things about the stay home order is the big impact on kids. Their entire life has been disrupted. In kid years, a month seems like forever. Not going to school, no sports or important activities, no scouts or clubs, no socializing. Adults are facing lay-offs and job change and everyone is trying to cope the very best way that they can. Here are some ideas for how you can help your kids:

1.  Continue to talk to them about what is going on. Listen to what they have to say and how they feel about all these disruptions. That way, everyone gets a chance to express their feelings, both good and bad.

2.  Keep a journal and every day write down what is going on around you and what has changed. The pandemic is historic and worth noting.

3.  If you have a little backyard or sideyard, plant some seeds. In that way, you are planning for the future and you can all watch the plants grow.

4.  Notice nature. Spring is in the air and with it – hope for the future.

5.  Encourage your kids to keep in touch with their friends on the internet. Encourage them to talk and play with their friends, just as if their friend could come over.

6.  Take a deep breath and have them breathe as well. So often we are in a hurry. We now all have a chance to slow down and calm down.

7.  Stay connected to friends and family. Teach your kids to reach out to family and friends they cannot see due to the stay home order. It will keep connections and also help others they are reaching.

8.  This will not last forever. Look forward to the future by planning fun things you will do when the summer comes. Make a list or a dream board.

Remember to point out that we are all in this together and that everyone is feeling the same way. This too shall pass and we will all get through this together.