School is closed and we are staying home. The disruption to your child's predictable routine, the news, and parent and caregiver stress can all be scary. Here are some resources to help support them during this uncertain time.
Why Can’t I Go to School? Information soothes anxiety. This free e-book answers the burning question in a simple and soothing way.
Covid-19: Five Helpful Responses for Families Guidance on creating safety, connection, and a new sense of normal.
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus Both too much information and too little can increase anxiety - here are tips for discussing the crisis with children.
Supporting Kids During the Coronavirus Crisis Children need the feeling of safety and stability during the disruption - here is guidance on providing that at home.
How Mindfulness Can Help During Covid-19 Amidst the uncertainty simple mindfulness activities can help children and adults manage anxiety.
What to Do (And Not Do) When Children Are Anxious How to respect feelings without empowering fears.
This is a uniquely stressful time and you are likely experiencing many new challenges. Please remember that in emergency situations like this it is important to “put on your own oxygen mask first” and take good care of yourself so that you are able to provide the feelings of safety and connection that children need right now. Below are some community resources that are available should you need them.
211 is available 24/7 to provide information and connect you to local programs and services. Call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211
Get support regarding your anxiety or stress by speaking to a trained counselor at SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or by texting TalkWithUS 66746
If you are concerned about your child or someone else in an emergency situation call the Statewide Crisis Hotline: 1-888-568-1112
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Statewide Domestic Abuse Hotline: 1-866-834-HELP
Statewide Sexual Assault Crisis and Support Line: Call 24/7 or text (Mon-Fri 8 am-11 pm): 1-800-871-7741
If you are concerned about child abuse or neglect call the state’s hotline: 1-800-452-1999
Food Resources:
These picture books are helpful for normalizing worrying, opening the door to helping children identify and talk about their own worries, and teaching coping skills. They are available on Amazon, or consider calling your favorite local bookstore to see if they can order it for you.
Worry Says What? By Allison Edwards
Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival
When Worry Takes Hold by Liz Haske
A Feel Better Book for Little Worriers by Holly Brochman
Don’t Feed the Worry Bug by Andi Green
Help Your Dragon Deal With Anxiety by Steve Herman
Pilar’s Worries by Victoria M. Sanchez
Worries Are Not Forever by Elizabeth Verdick
What to Do When You Worry Too Much - A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner
I highly recommend this self-help book. Using the imaginative metaphor of overgrown tomatoes this workbook guides children and their caregivers through cognitive-behavioral techniques effective at managing worry.