As the country and the world respond to the coronavirus (COVID-19), we are all feeling a wide range of emotions. Students might be feeling heightened or new anxiety or grief as they are forced to adapt to different routines and ongoing isolation from their peers.
It is important to attend to the social and emotional needs that arise during times like these. Social emotional learning is a means to explore and express emotions, build relationships, and support each other – children and adults alike – during this challenging, unprecedented time.
Self-paced, digital lessons for students for mental wellness and general life skills.
Activities created by students and educators for students to build their social emotional skills.
Animated interactive lessons allow users to practice in a safe environment the skills needed to manage real-life social situations. Free during school closures.
Helps to build resiliency during challenging times.
Here are some ways to support your child:
maintain normal, predictable routines as much as possible
have calm, age-appropriate, fact-based discussions
focus on the positive
model compassion, positive coping and self-care skills
eat healthy meals together
make sure children are getting enough sleep
spend more time together, increase play time – both inside and out
for older children, encourage breaks from the news and social media (if you do watch the news, watch it together to provide an opportunity for conversation and help to keep things in perspective)
Top app for less stress, more sleep and living better. Free Trial
Mindfulness for everyday life: stress less, move more and sleep soundly.
Free mindfulness and meditation app.
Ranging from guided mindfulness audio tracks, to videos on yoga and acupressure, and animated mindful games.
With students spending more time at home on devices, it’s good to remind them about staying safe online and being aware of possible COVID-19 scams.
Raising Digitally Responsible Youth is a parent’s guide and videos about online safety issues.
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has details on COVID-19 scams to be aware of.