Due to the coronavirus pandemic, millions of people are being forced to work from home. While this transition alone can be a challenge, having to watch your children while trying to get work done can be difficult to manage, but there are a few ways to properly balance these responsibilities.
Children need a space to play, which often means things are bound to get messy. Designate an area in your home specifically for schooling and playing. The kitchen usually works especially if kids are using paints or glitter. Plus, children are used to being in one classroom all day so using one specific space for childcare helps establish a routine which is key during these times.
Providing both physical and mental exercises is important for children, particularly as they tend to get restless. Have a one minute ‘stretch and shake’ session in the morning to get the school day started or, if you have the space outside, build a small obstacle course to get them moving and keep their attention for longer.
It is equally important to manage your child’s emotions as we are living in unprecedented times, and kids can easily pick up on the strangeness of it all. Talk to your children and let them know they are safe. One way to do this is to have time during the day where everyone talks about how they are feeling. This gives children a chance to voice their worries and gives parents the opportunity to introduce mindfulness practices that can help reduce anxiety.
