Safe at home not stuck at home. The Shelter in Place period might take longer than we first thought, but it is for the best to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. So, how do you make the best of the situation? Keep the kids productive and on schedule? We thought you might ask.
It’s time to buckle down and come up with a “new normal”. Research shows that consistency helps children thrive and during these uncertain times it’s more important than ever.
It won’t be like this forever but we hope that it will help make the transition easier for you and your family.
The Morning Routine Continues
Wake up, brush your teeth, get dressed, have breakfast with your family. This should continue. There may be nowhere to go but continuing your morning routine will help set you, and your little ones, up for the rest of the day!
Develop a Schedule
Set up blocks of time for distance learning, story time, lunch, outside play, and more so that your children know what’s happening that day. Maybe dedicate a block of time for a new skill? This way everyone can continue to have their learning – or work – time and downtime at home. Once ready, be sure to post it up on your refrigerator so that your whole family knows!
Keep Moving and Grooving!
Whether it’s dancing or a walk around the block, while keeping physical distance at all times, there should be at least 30 minutes of physical activity during your day! Exercise offers many benefits for children and adults including better sleep, less stress, and it helps build healthy muscles. Don’t know what exercises you can do at home? Joe Wicks, The Body Coach TV, is offering P.E. With Joe, a YouTube series of workout videos geared toward school age children that your child can do at home.
Establish a Space for Learning/Work
Along with a schedule, take time to determine which areas will be working and learning for you and your child. If it’s not a dedicated room maybe it’s a specific chair at the table for a couple of hours. This should help you and your little ones get into the mindset of learning or working and still enjoy a work/life balance.
It’s Okay Not to be Productive
Everything is new for everyone and each family is having to make it work their own way. It is okay if you happen to have an off day here or there. Take care of yourself so that you can better care for your family and know that you are not alone.
We will continue to share resources that benefit you and your family. If you’re running low on activity ideas be sure to check out our blog on the free resources available to keep your children entertained and educated or check out our Strengthening Families blog for more activities.
