Family Wellness Tips
Hi Owlkids Family,
As a parent, juggling this new normal of working from home while also feeling the pressure to be a “teacher”, I had a few questions about how best to meet these challenges. So I reached out to Chirp educational consultant Lise-Anne Mandaliti to see if she had any family wellness tips. Here is her advice. Thanks, Lise-Anne!
Create a sense of routine.
Make a visual schedule based on your family’s resources. Some things to include: outside time, “home” work, free play, quiet time, reading, screen time and craft time. Children will enjoy being able to anticipate what’s coming next.
Don’t worry about recreating school at home.
The educational system is adjusting along with you. No one expects you to recreate classroom learning at home. The priority is that students feel loved, safe, and secure.
Focus on mental health.
Create a gratitude journal, talk about feelings, have everyone share a thumbs up/thumbs down about their day during mealtime. Listen and acknowledge everyone’s contributions.
Don’t feel guilty about screens.
This is a difficult time for everyone. Use your best judgement but don’t stress if screen time goes over the normal limit.
Fit in quality learning when you can.
Avoid rushing or forcing children to do work when you have a few minutes to fit it in. Do what you can, when you can, but do it well. Set a time for school studies that works for your family. Keep it focused and keep it positive.
Remember that learning is varied.
A child learns not only from sit-down, paper and pencil work, but also by cooking, making crafts, playing, building, and engaging in physical activity.
Dedicate time to connect as a family:
Be silly, play together, laugh together, let your child be their true selves.
Be kind to yourself. You’re doing great.
