In such unprecedent times, all individuals have been called to use more resiliency and resourcefulness to adapt. As all parents, teachers and therapists all know, impact that COVID-19 has taken on children has had significant and long-last impacts on mental health. Basic feelings of security, a sense of safety, stability and physical connection has shifted.
Here are some activities that can help you stay creative, connect and promote your child’s mental well-being:
-Emotional Jenga
– Brainstorm with your little one about various emotions and write them on Jenga blocks. This can be a great game to spark conversations on each emotion as you play. For instance, when “scared” is pulled, a story is shared about feeling scared.
-Make a Memory Jar
– Fill this jar with summertime memories, memories since COVID, trinkets from the last few sessions and use this time as a chance to discuss feelings around COVID, continuing to quarantine, going back to school, whatever comes up. While it may be tough to lean into these conversations, you giving your child the space to talk, provides security and safety to process all the change.
-Meditate Together
– Teach the power of presence by practicing together! Meditate together in the evening, during nighttime routines and also consider using this as a practice for transitioning between school and leisure time.
-Send letters to friends and family
– Writing letters together can be a wonderful way to connect to your child and remind that no matter how far friends and family are, or how long it has been since you have seen each other in person, that the power of love is in connection. This can be grounding and a nice way to unplug together for some quality time as well.
-Paint a sign for Hope Together or Write to First Responders
– Reminding your child that hope and positivity will move us forward is such a powerful lesson right now. Paint a sign for first responders, or write a thank-you note to someone your child knows who has been on the frontlines.
Remind your children that no matter the weather, it doesn’t last forever. Validate their frustrations, fears and anxieties and normalize conversations around these topics. Making creative conversations and projects part of your routine can help give you more of a foundation for supporting your child throughout the season.
I’d love to hear what activities or ideas have worked for you, or to add to this list. Please message or comment to share.
Stay safe, kind and be well!
-Delia Berinde, MS, LPCC
www.lookingforward.counseling.com
Lakewood, CO Therapy