Kids are great observers but not great interpreters- take time to give an age appropriate explanation of this pandemic and answer their questions
Pay attention to your own mood, it has a big impact on your children
Pay attention to misbehavior- sometimes misbehavior stems from needs not being met
Have positive memories stored up! Create opportunities to make fun memories while everyone is home
Point out what kids are doing well
When kids are spending time on video games, ask them about it! By taking an interest in their interests, they will feel more connected
Stay positive! :)
The Crucial C's
Have COURAGE- it is SO important to have courage. Point out the strength you see in your children when they enjoy something, recognize their improvements- they don't have to be done to perfection, but they are making improvement and growing
Be able to CONNECT- Kids who connect with others feel secure, have confidence, control, and self-discipline. Things you can do at home to help foster this is to spend at least 10 minutes doing something they like to do even if it is playing video games. Look for thing’s kids are doing well and pointing it out to them. Cook meals together, get back to old school games (i.e. I spy, and Simon says)
Feel CAPABLE: need to feel competent and capable in themselves. Things you can do focus on what kids are doing well without condition. Help child know you believe in them. Don’t do things for kids that they can do themselves and be ok with result of how they do it. Model for them that it is ok to mess up. Have family keep a gratitude chart to know there is still a lot to be thankful for
Feel like they COUNT: feel like they can make a difference in the world and contribute, help kids figure out ways to show they care, read to kids things that interest them, have conversation with kids without distractions, say thank you to your kids, make murals together
