Wednesday, July 29, 2020
Calming Kids' Worries about Covid-19
As we all try to navigate the shared trauma that is the Coronavirus Pandemic, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, for adults and for children. Kids, especially those in elementary school, often hear or see things ( perhaps on the news, radio, or other media) that may make them feel scared, but they don't have a full understanding of what is happening. This uncertainty, combined with the drastic changes in lifestyle, social isolation, etc. can lead to emotional disruption, feelings of frustration, anxiety, and loneliness. To help children understand Covid, I had a "discussion" with my puppet
( aptly named "Puppy") about Covid-19. Puppy asked common questions and shared his concerns as we read a publication made for children by NPR. I made this video in March, but the conversation with Puppy is still relevant today. I hope it can provide some answers, and possible relief, to kids who may be feeling scared or unsure about Covid-19 and the current change in our lifestyles. You'll also find some useful resources on talking with kids, and helping kids understand the Covid-19 pandemic, pasted below.
Relax :)
Below, you'll find links to help kids self-regulate. First, there are links to live animal and ocean cams.
Next, let's talk about coloring! Coloring is a great way to relax and express emotion without using words. Here are some coloring pages for you to try! The link to the main coloring page resource is also provided below.
Resources for Teacher and Families
Hello, Friends, and welcome to My Virtual Counseling Resource Page!
Below, I have provided some links to activities, videos, and other resources to help students cope with big emotions. These emotions can include Anxiety, Anger, Impulsivity, Low Motivation, and more! This page will continually be refreshed, with new resources, updates, and information. I hope you will find these resources helpful:)
The Body Scan can help kids ( and adults!) identify the cues each of our bodies give us when our emotions grow. This short video provides an example of a body scan for children.
Teaching Kids How to Use a 1-10 Scale is a useful tool for them child, and their caregivers. Below, You'll find an example of a 1-10 rating scale for anxiety. Students who can verbalize their rating can tell you very quickly, where they are. ( 1 being "able to deal/stay in classroom" and 10 being " Out of control/Dysregulated)
The third tool that is very helpful for kids, is to be able to self identify WHERE in the body they are feeling anxiety. All of our bodies give us cues when we feel different emotions. You can use the blank body outline below, to encourage children to color/point to where they feel their big emotions. As an example, anxiety might lead to a feeling of illness or "butterflies" in the stomach. Anger may lead to a headache, or tight fists.
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