Hello friends,
I was thinking this morning about the effects of social distancing, home confinement, closed schools, day care, playgrounds, etc. on our little people — especially those with ADHD. Think about how you’ve been feeling in the weeks since you’ve been told to stay at home. Not so happy, right?
So what about these vulnerable little guys? Without the normal school routines and structure—even if you’ve substituted your own —and without recess, peers and playground equipment, these little guys have every reason to feel a bit cranky. What can you do to make your child feel better?
#1 OUTDOOR PLAY: With lovely Spring weather, the kids want to get outside, climb, run and jump. Playgrounds have been closed. If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard, you’re in business. If not, it’s time to get creative! Consider spaces like rec rooms (in homes or apartment buildings), your friend’s backyard either when they aren’t using it or with strictly enforced social distancing. Ask your kids for ideas! They often are better at “thinking outside the box” than we are. Also ask you friends what they are doing (and let me know so I can pass along your ideas)!
#2 THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE: Have your child select three routines from their former typical day that they like or find helpful. Then, together, figure out how those routines can be used as is, or modified, for use at home.
#3 WORK ON ACADEMIC SKILLS, BUT . . . DON’T MAKE YOUR CHILD HATE YOU!
Hopefully, your school has given you guidance on an appropriate amount of time to have your child work on skills. Try to be nearby, so if your child gets frustrated, you or another adult are there to calm them. You know your own child better than anyone else. As you see your child starting to lose interest or get easily upset, switch gears.
Please email me at sylvia@winikeducationalconsulting.com with other topics you’d like me to address and any additional suggestions you may have.