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As we’re all adjusting to the new normal of social distancing, e-learning, and home isolation, it’s easy to get so focused on what needs to be done that you forget to take care of yourself.
Below are some tips I hope can help you, and that you can share with your students and staff to help them.
There is a free download of the infographic we shared with our parents and teachers, which is available for you as well.
1. Set a Schedule
If you’re home with kids, set a schedule. It does not have to be tight. But even something as simple as: Work Time, Play Time, Meal Time. Try to have everyone get up at the same time each morning and have a set bed time. A predictable schedule brings a sense of security to everyone.
2. Make a New Tradition
Traditions, along with a schedule, bring a sense of normalcy. In an ever changing environment, it’s key to have some sort of tradition in each day. It can be fun too! Maybe you all can go for a morning walk, or do something special during lunch time. Whatever it looks like for your family, it’s important to have some sort of tradition that your family does each day. As you do it, it will calm everyone and give everyone, maybe only for a moment, a sense of, “life is normal and I’m not alone”.
3. 30 Minutes of Me Time
It can be more than 30 minutes if you like, but it’s ESSENTIAL that as a parent home with your kids that you enforce “Me Time” for yourself. It’s ok to stick the kids in front of their favorite movie and head to your room and just relax and have a break. Maybe you can read, listen to music, journal. Whatever energizes you, do it! You cannot give if you have nothing to give, so take that time and recharge, everyday.
If you’re a student. You too need some “me time.” Do something for yourself that you enjoy. Play your favorite game, read a book for fun, practice basketball in the front yard, or whatever you do to find enjoyment, make sure you schedule some time for it each day.
4. Stay Connected
It’s challenging to stay connected when we are supposed to be socially distancing. But a good goal is to make at least 1 phone call a day to a friend (an uplifting friend, not someone that drains you. You can call the draining friend after you talk to the uplifting friend). The last thing anyone needs is to feel and be isolated. So please, do what you can to stay connected to friends. Call, text, facetime, etc.
5. Be a Calm Presence
Now this is definitely a tall order. However, our children, even if they are teenagers, get their cues from their parents. If you’re calm they will be more calm (or have a better chance at it). If you’re panicked and stressed, they will be more panicked and stressed. So, it’s important to practice self-care and stay connected with friends so that you can be a calm and reassuring presence to your children.
Young people, you can help your parents by being a calm presence for them. Do your assignments without the constant need for reminders from them, help with some chores around the house, and speak kind words to them. Your parents are going through a lot right now, and they could use your support and encouragement.
6. Limit the News
The news has not been a place to get encouraged or feel refreshed. It’s a place that heightens fear and creates alarm. I feel anxious after watching it for an extended amount of time. Imagine how your kids might feel. If you feel that you must watch the news, try to do so in a place where young people can’t se or hear it.
7. One Day At A Time
Don’t try to imagine the future, take 1 day at time and tomorrow you will deal with tomorrow.
Click here to view more face masks for math teachers
8. Stay Away From the “What If’s” and Stay Focused on Truth
This is great advice just for life in general. “What If” questions are anxiety producing and not productive! If your mind starts going to questions like, “What if we don’t go back to school?” “What if my child fails?” “What if I get the virus?”, etc (and hopefully I didn’t plant any thoughts in your mind). Stop yourself! Tell yourself to not go there and tell yourself the TRUTH.
Remember John 17:17, Jesus says that God’s word is truth.
Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you be strong and courageous, do not be terrified, do not be discouraged. For the Lord Your God will be with you wherever you go”.
9. Allow Grace to Cover our Mistakes
For Christian Schools – God’s Grace Covers Our Mistakes
We’re not perfect. We’re going to mess up everyday. Our kids will mess up everyday. We’re going to lose it. I’m sure our kids will at times too. Thankfully, God does not expect me to be perfect. He’s God, I am not. Thankfully His Grace covers all of our shortcomings. Rest in that.
For Public Schools
It’s okay to make mistakes. Everyone is making them. Don’t beat yourself up or harp on them. Just know that you’re going to make them, apologize when you do, and let it go.
This means that you also have to allow for others to make mistakes. Be gracious with others and they’ll be gracious with you.
