Information for Families in Challenging Times

During this stressful and challenging time there are opportunities to strengthen connections, grow and practice resilience. Children may be anxious or angry
depending on their unique nature, experiences, family’s challenges, or information they have heard.

Keep in mind

·	Calm, positive, reassuring adults help children become more resilient

·	Encourage family members to take care of eachother to strengthen family connections ·	Take care of yourselves & help your child do the same teaches personal growth
·	Love & common sense are invaluable--accept you are doing the best youcan ·	Expert advice & information can add to parent/guardian confidence

Time together canbe an opportunity

·	Create healthy & balanced habits

·	Engage in old & new family activities (explore each your different interests) ·	Build family values & beliefs
·	Communicate more often (privately and as a family—get to know each other better) ·	Support and learn about your child’s educational activities
·	Talk about what each person is grateful for in their lives

·	Agree to care about & help more (teach empathy & reciprocity) ·	Build character: Find positive solutions to avoid blaming
·	Practice & teach reframing negative into positive thoughts

Find a way

·	Exercise increases relaxation & reduces stress ·	Communicate (social distance or remote) to:
Build relationships & mutual support; Reduce social isolation

Take a break ·	From each other for personal space
·	From social media, devices, and smartphone checking

·	From opinions about coronavirus & news (informed vs overwhelmed)

·	From children’s exposure to worrisome media about coronavirus (avoid exposure trauma)

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