Supporting Your Child Post Pandemic

Take advantage of support services

Seek the advice and support of school counselors, school psychologists, or other social services. Remember that no matter how close you are to your child, they may be more comfortable discussing a troubling situation with another trusted adult.

The federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration ended on May 11, 2023. Just because we have moved past the emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, it does not mean we are out of the woods with our existing stressors and life challenges. Moreover,  these and the consequently emerging challenges we face can be overwhelming and distressing. 

Here are some tips to help you and your children in coping with challenges, managing your mental stability, social awareness and emotional intelligence:

Let your child know you are available to support them as an active listener

As children continue to acclimate to in-person instruction and other activities in social settings, and especially as routines change, children may display signs of worry about themselves, their families, and their friends. Talking to your children and supporting them with their questions and concerns effectively requires active listening. Certain words and practices can help children cope with their feelings and help guide discussions.

Engage in fun and relaxing activities with your child 

Providing emotional support to your child does not have to feel like a stiff conversation. Spending time with your child and engaging with them in fun and relaxing activities, such as art, music, and games, may strengthen your connection with them, while allowing them to strengthen their sense of self and channel and express their interests and creativity.  

Stay calm

Children react to what you say and how you say it. They “absorb” what is said to others and pick up on nonverbal body language. The calmer you seem, the more relaxed your child will be, which helps children better understand the information they are told. 

Practice Self-Care

Many parents, who may be trying to manage multiple work schedules as well as their child’s school expectations. It is a lot. Above all else, try not to stretch yourself too thin. Be gentle with yourself and with each other. We will all need to let go of some expectations of normal to accommodate our current reality. We must also find time to support our own mental well-being in some way. Mental health practices are not a luxury, especially now. We do not do our best work when we are overstressed, and it can impact our health as well as our child’s. 

Be aware of what your children see and hear on television, the radio and online

Children often see and hear more than parents and caregivers realize. It is important to know what your child has seen or heard on TV, the radio, or online (e.g., YouTube or other social media), so that you can discuss any worries or misinformation. 

Maintain or implement routines

Routines are important for children, especially when there is increased uncertainty and stress. As school and home routines are disrupted, children may have trouble regulating their emotions and behaviors. Try to maintain basic daily routines as you normally would, such as getting ready for the day and bedtime schedules. If you have school-age children, create a basic loose structure for the day and week.

Consider the following tips and tools:

• Have a goal or theme for the week!

• Use educational resources that your child’s school provides for a portion of each day; the amount of time may vary depending on the age of your child.

• Spend some time outside each day for exercise and fresh air.

• Include time for fun and relaxation too.