• MODEL: If your kids see you hysterical or spiralling downwards, know that despite what they say, you are their biggest influence.
• FUN CHALLENGE: In this unprecedented downtime, allow your kids & teens to make this time exciting – rearranging their room to reflect their maturing style, inventing a new recipe.
• HEAR THEM: Don’t shut your kids down when they voice their worries. Instead of saying “you’re being ridiculous now” acknowledge it with a “I hear that you are worried about….,” but follow up with some of the rational anxiety busters. Make developmentally appropriate conversations to address their concerns.
• STRUCTURE, STRUCTURE AND MORE STRUCTURE: Remember, even if your kids are couch potatoes during the weekend or school holidays, during the normal school days, their life is scheduled to the minute. Set up a timeline in your home for learning, grooming, exercising, chores, sleep and even play.
• LET’S GET PHYSICAL: Exercise is key. Ideally, a run or long walk outside or kicking the ball is best. However, if your home doesn’t allow for that, invest in a jump rope or encourage them to explore the online workout videos.
• SOCIAL MEDIA – A TIME & A PLACE: With “distancing” being our new normal, our kids will actually need to use their devices to connect (as opposed to just weeks ago when it was the addictive unhealthy replacement to in-person contact). However, don’t let this become a free-for-all. Schedule it, and encourage them to use apps like Facetime and House Party, which provides face-to-face contact and speaking.
• PLAN FOR FUN: This is real life and kids and adults alike need “non-productive” breaks. While you should require your kids to pitch in to help with the house, especially as it’s being lived in and used more than normal, allow them to schedule time to get bored and do nothing.
• THE JOY OF GIVING: Science has proven that doing a kind act releases the brain chemical oxytocin, the “feel good” chemical that can almost provide a high. Set up a 1-A-Day kindness challenge in your home. Call an isolated relative or friend. Pick up groceries for an elderly neighbour. Recapping the competition each night will help keep the “helper’s high” going.

To further support the well-being of the students and parents, the pastoral team created a wellbeing journal. The students were encouraged to share their journal entries with the school counsellors. Link on the click to view and download it: COVID-19 Well Being Journal