Parenting is incredibly challenging at various moments, and more than ever, our children need us to be available both emotionally and physically. But how can we show up for others when we are struggling to show up for ourselves? If you are struggling with your child’s behaviors, on top of feeling run down or overly anxious, know you are not alone. It is okay to ask (and to receive) support. In addition to the following links for parents, keep the following tips* in mind as you navigate the difficulties you and your child may be facing during this time:
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Be aware of your emotions and the thoughts driving them. Track times you are activated, and what you did to get through difficult moments in a journal. What do you need to stay standing? How can what you did to get back up help you move through future challenges?
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Parent from a place of resilience, strength, and love.
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You can ask for your own support.
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Find the opportunities to build strength as a family through the challenges. Reflect on this often.
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Have strong boundaries and do not walk on egg shells. Keep doing what is not working until it does!
*Inspired by Lloyd-Richardson, E. & Whitlock, J. (2019). Healing Self-Injury: A compassionate Guide for Parents and Loved Ones. Oxford University Press: NY.
How To Help Children Cope with COVID-19
Tips For Parents
Coping Cards Featuring The Planet Pals
By: Kim Johancen
Created by a therapist, these cards provide a fun way to implement coping skills into daily learning while also raising awareness to issues related to climate change. Eight different ways to play are described that can be used in classrooms, small groups, or with individuals.
Each card includes an illustration of Earth and his pet Star using coping skills that promote resilience and cover various themes such as Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Relationships, and Distraction Skills. Students will increase their ability to manage stress and build inner strength as they practice coping skills alongside The Planet Pals.
The Feelings Avoidance Epidemic: 5 Steps To Change Course
https://www.positiveparentingsolutions.com/
Parenting Traumatized Children and Teens
https://healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx
http://www.nwtraumacounseling.org/
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/
Fostering, Adopting, and Parenting Children and Teens
http://fosteringperspectives.org/
