Dear Patients,

Our children bring so much joy to our lives. Their goofy antics; their sticky kisses; their relentless questions; they keep us on our toes and ground us in what is truly important. We love them with all that we are and cherish the time we spend with them.

…but being cooped up in the house with them 24/7 with no breaks? That’s enough to drive even the best parent a little bit crazy (myself included!).

I know you may be thinking there’s no way to get through this with your sanity intact. I want to reassure you that you and your family can not only “get through this” but grow closer and stronger in the process.

Take a look at these essential strategies for helping your family through this stressful time that you can start using today regardless of what age your kids may be.

1. Develop a routine. Kids of all ages need structure. The sudden shift from a planned-out school day to the freedom of home can be a real challenge. By creating a routine, your children can feel a sense of security and know what to anticipate, and you will feel more in control.

2. Plan ahead. Spend a few hours scouring the internet for kid- or teen-friendly at home activities. So many items we all have just lying around can be turned into games, toys, crafts, or learning opportunities for us and our kids to share. By planning ahead, you will always have something in your toolbox to pull out when boredom strikes.

3. Talk to your kids about what’s going on. Think of this as an opportunity to show your kids how to handle stress with grace. By sharing your feelings and keeping them informed (age appropriately) they will learn how to better communicate their emotions and feel empowered.

4. Finally, don’t forget about yourself. Being a caregiver of any kind can be overwhelming. It’s easy to prioritize our children’s needs over our own. Even if it’s just in the evening after the kids are asleep, make sure you allow time for self-care. Read a book, write a letter, have a pretend “date night” with your spouse, go for a walk, or do whatever it is that helps you feel a sense of calm.

As a mother to a two-year-old boy, I’ve had my share of struggles with being cooped up at home. Dr. March shared a wonderful quote with me that brought me a great deal of comfort, and I want to end by sharing it with all of you:

“Parents: What we are being asked to do is not humanly possible. There is a reason we are either a working parent, a stay-at-home parent, or a part-time working parent.

Working, parenting, and teaching are three different jobs that cannot be done at the same time.

It’s not hard because you are doing it wrong. It’s hard because it’s too much.
Do the best you can.

When you have to pick, because at some point you will, choose connection. Pick playing a game over arguing about an academic assignment. Pick teaching your child to do laundry rather than feeling frustrated that they aren’t helping. Pick laughing, and snuffling, and reminding them that they are safe.

If you are stressed, lower your expectations where you can and virtually reach out for social connection. We are in this together to stay well. That means mentally well, too.”

-Emily W. King Ph.D.

I’m here to support you through this. Call me or email me (269-808-6422; jessica@aimnatural) so we can set up a time to talk through what you’re going through.

Until we speak, be well.

Jessica