We are not perfect. We all make mistakes. Parents yell at their children over little things and have meltdowns. While children and student anxiety and stress are higher at the moment, parents are too. Parents are allowed to have meltdowns in front of their kids. How a parent handles the conversation after this happens is essential. Children are like sponges and absorb everything around them. Seeing a person, they respect and look up to break take a minute to calm down and collect themselves. Then explain in an age-appropriate conversation can educational for them. Breaking down is okay and shows kids we are not perfect, and showing emotions is acceptable. 

As always, reach out when anything you happen to think of, I would be happy to help. 

Ms. Claire Lawrence

What we are experiencing right now is a stressful time for all of us, especially parents. Parents are now having to juggle being a parent, employee, and a teacher. Many companies are giving a discount to teachers and parents to help get through this time. I have posted a list of free resources previously for families to use.  But companies are adding more discounts and free resources all the time. Love and Logic this week posted, they are offering their online parenting class for free. 

As always stay safe and feel to reach out with any concerns.
Ms. Lawrence

During this time, students and all of us are going through disappointment. Students will not be able to graduate with their class, and teachers will not get to say goodbye to students. Sports and vacations have been canceled or postponed. Dealing with navigating how to handle the disappointment can be challenging. Here is an article to help converse with your children on disappointment. If you need additional resource or are struggling with  anything feel free to reach out. 

Taking a quick minute to check your "battery" and how you are feeling is an excellent reminder of when we are working too hard. Also, when we need to take a break and recharge. It is okay to take a break and tell your family you need time for yourself.  I have posted ideas for self-care previously—those great ideas to recharge your battery. This is something you can also ask your kids to see how they are feeling. Then have a conversation about why they feel that way and come up with ideas to help them refuel. 

As always feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Claire

Control our environment is something most people like and try to accomplish. During this time, it can be challenging. We don't know when our lives will go back to normal.  Students are missing their friends, graduations, prom, sports, and much more. Teachers are missing out on seeing students, finishing the year and all the fun that comes with the end of the year. Here is an example of what we can control and what we cannot control when we start to get frustrated or angry about the things other people are doing, try and think about what you can control. Take a break and distract the brain by doing something calming and relaxing. Breaks look differently for everyone; there is no one way or one method that works better. I have recently started to do activities I did at camp and had forgotten how relaxing and calming they can be. It also brought back good memories.  

I challenge you all to think of something you did when you were a kid that brought you joy or comfort. Try it as an adult and see if you can still remember. 

As always, stay safe and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Ms. Lawrence

In this video from Elmo's dad Louie encouragers parents to keep up the good work. He also reminds all of us to take time for ourselves and take breaks. We all have had to change our lives and have our moments of feeling like we can't do this. While teachers are busy creating lesson plans and grading assignments parents are having to keep their children occupied and on task. We will all be okay and get through this!  

Here is the video and some ideas for parents to take time for themselves. 
Here is a list of self care ideas for parents. 

I am sure by now everyone is looking for more ideas to do with students at home. I have found 60 doable at home activities with items most people have in their homes. 

​Enjoy!

With all the negativity in our world today, I decided to focus on the positive in my life and things I am grateful for. One way is to reflect every day on three positives in your life that day. It can be as simple as I am thankful for technology that allows us to be able to do school. Or very specific as I am grateful for one of my children doing something for someone else.  Another way is to watch something funny or something focusing on the positive. If you are a dog lover like me I would recommend the videos by Pluto the dog.  Or if you are a fan of "The Office" John Krasinski has a youtube channel dedicated to uplifting stories.  Whatever it is focusing on the good in our lives rather than the bad can help us all stay sane in this crazy time. 

Another website with good news.
https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/

As always feel free to reach out with any concerns.
Claire

I don't know about you but this entire week has felt like a Monday. The weather could have something to do with it or the fact this is the first full week of digital learning. With so much emphasis on how are students going to learn mental health has taken a back burner. Here is an article to help identify signs of kids struggling with mental health and ways to care for your mental health. 

With the weather turning and kids not being able to play outside. More and more people will get cabin fever and parents won't know what to do. Below are several scavenger hunts. Some of the scavenger hunts might have to alter due to the availability in your household. 
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Happy hunting!