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During this time of social distancing, it is my hope that we can find the silver lining in this.  Perhaps you can reframe this as an opportunity to create memories with your family, develop new rituals of connection, and take the time to learn and grow in your own self care.  To that end, I’d like to share some ideas in each of these areas.

WHAT I WANT YOU TO KNOW:

  • You’re doing great.  If you’re homeschooling your kids for 8.25 hours straight every day–great!  If your kids have had more screen time this week than in the last month combined–great!  Do what works for you.
  • Ditch comparison – we’re all doing the best we can.  Lean in to what is best for your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
  • Embrace self-compassion … this is a pandemic.  It is not an added opportunity for increased productivity and perfection.
  • If all you get done today is breathe, that’s okay too.  Here’s my favorite breathing guide.

IDEAS TO FOSTER CONNECTION 

  • Grab a journal or notebook and use it to write notes back and forth between you and your child or husband…. just like you may have done in middle school with your BFF (or was that just me who did that?!)
  • Be intentional about how you spend time with your children and spouse – as you try to balance working from home with keeping everyone busy and sane, focus on QUALITY time over QUANTITY of time.  If you only have 10 minutes between Zoom Conferences or phone meetings, think of a quick way to really connect with those in your home.
  • Start a gratitude journal with your family … I’ve been doing one for 6 years nightly with my kids and it has provided so much fun, gratitude, and joy every night as we record our gratitude and re-read older entries.
  • Take advantage of technology with FaceTime and group chats to connect with friends and family

iDEAS TO FOCUS ON SELF-CARE & GROWTH

MINDFULNESS/MEDITATION

TED TALKS THAT PROMOTE WELLBEING

PICK UP A BOOK

HAVE A LISTEN

IDEAS TO STAY ACTIVE

FOR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS

CONNECTION

    • Houseparty app, where you sign on and can video chat with however many of your friends happen to be on there at the same time. Kind of like a virtual chill party:

SCHEDULES

ONLINE MEETINGS

ONLINE ACADEMIC CLASSES/ACTIVITIES