I am a Mom to 2 boys with “ADHD”, and it is amazing what can be done for them by changing our thinking… I have learned to be thankful for the challenges we have faced with our two boys, and for the journey of personal development which continues to show me so many wonderful things. I finally got the concept about not putting…
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Parenting Mojo Blog
As if the start of the year isn't filled with enough anxiety, here comes the COVID-protocol-but-what-about-academics-and-my-child-is-behind-and-will-she-be-safe start of school.
I want to talk about your feelings in this edition, because you really matter and because what you feel often gets transmitted to the child in front of you, even if you don't say anything. Kids are funny that way - they can read your heart.
Anxiety is fear where there's no present threat. Is it presently threatening to send your child into a building where the Delta variant is still very real? It could be. Is the school doing all it can to keep your child safe? Check it out and only send them if it feels as safe as it can be under these circumstances. If it doesn't, contact the school and ask for more safety. Or choose a different school or method of learning.
Now I have this to offer you, Dear Parent. Do what you can to assure the child's safety. Find out how to get free testing for your child or buy some home test kits for your peace of mind.
Then decide whether to visualize your child in peril, or in a safe welcoming environment. For the latter, which I recommend, visualize teachers, many with school-age children of their own, who are working VERY hard to make the school year satisfying to the students. Visualize that they have taken their own precautions to keep everyone safe, and that they are following district guidelines. Visualize that they realize that creating a warm environment overrides academics at the start of this year, that connecting with their students is what will help them feel safe enough to learn. Visualize that everyone is in "catch-up mode." You and your child are not alone.
Remember that no matter how much it seems like it does, worry never changes a situation for the better.
Ask yourself: "What if something goes very right today?" Do this over and over as a gift to you.
Then do what you can to exude confidence in your child's adaptability. Say, "Remember how you got through so much last year? I notice how you built some real skill in making it work. Nothing can take that skill away from you. You're taking it to school with you, and maybe you'll even have an opportunity to help other kids feel safe and included."
"I trust you to do your best."
These times are far from normal, but the lessons in them are invaluable in helping kids cope with the unexpected.
And you have my sincerest wishes for a rich and rewarding school year, maybe in ways you never imagined!
Hugs,
Tina
Schooling during the pandemic
Posted:
This is the letter from a very wise AZ principal to parents about homeschooling during COVID-19. It's one of the most helpful things I've seen written, so I'm offering it to you here. It's longer than most things you have time to read, but I want to encourage you to read the whole thing, as a self-care opportunity, so needed these days. You matter, too, parents!
Had enough advice about COVID-19? Here's an article about Disempowering Anxiety that could help in these times, and doesn't pound away at you with more statistics and fear.
Screen addictions in children are rampant in our world, and the price we will pay is way too high. This article provides solid guidelines for managing screen time in order to help kids live their active authentic lives. It takes effort, but the effort is vital for healthy child-raising.
The past week and-a-half, Evan has make a major turn-around in school and (his teacher) Krista has really noticed it. What a milestone Evan has accomplished. We just wanted to send you a quick thank you for all of your help and to give you some good news on his progress. We will keep in touch. I think it is important for parents to get the “real life” view of [this] approach and the effectiveness in using a parent/teacher coach.
Struggle With Child Behavior?
Maybe your child or teen has no diagnosis, but the child behavior problems are just too big to handle on your own. You feel ready for "personalized parent education" customized to your family's needs.
