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Stay up to date with new mental wellness activities, insights, and resources with our blog.
The Campus Conundrum: Going back to school during the Omicron Surge
Heading back to campus and starting the second semester is supposed to feel like freedom and a fresh start, but there’s nothing new or fresh about starting school when you’re isolated and learning from afar, even if you’re on campus. If you find yourself feeling sad, frustrated, anxious, or hopeless about the situation, you are in good company. It’s hard not to get caught up wondering if the online classes will be extended or waiting for the next cancellation or the next disappointment. There’s a part of everyone that wants to stay in bed and wait for it to be over, and everything to get back to normal.
Pandemic Parenting Fatigue
When you are a mom or solo caregiver, you are “supposed” to know all the answers, but no one teaches or prepares you to suddenly not require sleep, feel anxiety about keeping a human alive, and still somehow carry along with all of the same responsibilities as before. It’s a lot. It gets so much easier in some ways and so much harder in others. The COVID 19 pandemic has magnified this sense of responsibility in all primary caregivers and has us feeling like we are drowning and barely afloat.
Tips and Tricks for Managing Quarantine and Re-Entry
The Omicron variant has invaded so many households, schools and the world, causing many to quarantine, once again. Quarantining can feel like a set back and another major blow, especially now as we’re almost two years into the pandemic. Once again, many parents are faced with the stress of caring for their child, taking care of the household, and working. The uncertainty and disruption causes riptides of emotions. Here are a few ideas that help make what feels impossible more manageable.
Tips for Talking to Kids About Traumatic Events Without Added Fear and Anxiety
Social media (Instagram, TikTok, Reddit, Twitter, and on and on) and 24-hour news provides a constant source of unending information that can spread like wildfire. Shielding your child from news and information is not an option. What’s a parent to do? Don’t be afraid of starting conversations about hard topics. These conversations are a must. Keep the lines of communication open. Calm and Connection are the key!
Tips for Stress-Free Family Time
In the book The Invisible Riptide, Stella talks about the emotional current of the world and learned that meant that her brain can feel the riptide of those around her. She also learned that paying attention to what’s going on in her body helps her understand what feelings she’s experiencing. Using these concepts can help you and your family have a lower stress, more enjoyable holiday break!!!
Toys, Toys, Toys
All of the up-to- date neuroscience shows the importance of connection, rhythm and movement. Kids love rituals and routines. Set aside special time for game night, play time, or books. Kids LOVE getting your undivided attention and choosing activities. You’ll be amazed at how something so small can go so far. Toys, books, and games bring our children’s brains what they need and promote true growth, resilience and happiness—connection!