Navigating Having Kids at Home During the Coronavirus Outbreak

Well, it sure seems the Coronavirus is here to stay, some say for potentially six months. Many of us are feeling quite uncertain and worried at this time, and for good reason. At the time of writing (March 2020), Sydney schools, remain open but do encourage families to keep kids home, if at all possible.

This means that families are having to navigate how to manage kids’ schooling and learning, as well as their own normal daily routines.

I've been doing lots of reading and research around how to manage kids at home at this time, whether you're working from home, still running your own business, or whatever your role.

Here are my top strategies, woven with an emotional intelligence thread, for getting through this tricky time with your kids. Let’s support our whole family to thrive rather than fall in a heap with overwhelm!

Tip 1: Give yourself some compassion.

Emotional Synchronicity - we must understand that kids pick up on our stress and emotions. So let’s raise our awareness of our own emotions, and actively find self-care activities that will support our own mental health. Give yourself some compassion at this time that the house may not be as clean as usual. The kids may not eat a balanced diet on some days, and they may watch a little more TV than usual. This is okay! Don't beat yourself up. We are in unprecedented times, and giving yourself some grace will make all the difference to your family’s journey at this time.

Tip 2: Take time to plan a routine.

Home is generally much less structured than a workplace or classroom! This is NORMAL, however, we know that kids thrive in a routine as they function better knowing what’s to come and what’s expected. So rather than having each day drag by with zero structure and the kids mucking about (causing you stress!), take time to set out a rough routine for each day. Make an intention of what you might want to get done before the day even begins. It will only take a few minutes in the morning. What is realistic in your day for your family? Don't try and go above and beyond, squeezing in 20 activities for your kids PLUS your own work. Again, give yourself some compassion here.

Tip 3: Talk to your kids.

Take time to chat with your kids each day about how they're feeling. Not just about being home and completing schoolwork, but missing their friends and grandparents, what they see on TV, and anything else they might worry about. If you don’t ask, they may be seeing or hearing things that frighten them and bottling it up. Make an effort to chat about things they enjoy about being home with you, too. It’s important to not always focus on the negative. You can also ask kids for their ideas on daily routine and activities and give them some confidence in planning their day and taking back some control. Lastly, tell your kids that you are really impressed and proud of how they are navigating this time and they will feel all the more confident and resilient.

Tip 4: Let your kids take the lead.

Okay - this does NOT mean that all plans go out the window and kids get to do whatever they want! We all know how that would end… What I'm talking about here is being aware of how your kids are feeling where their focus is during the day. Are they getting tired or distracted? They will show you when they're ready for a break. They will show you when they need to connect with you or feel extra love. Sometimes a nature break or just good ol’ play is what’s needed. Be aware of this and don't try to charge ahead with your schedule. Let them know that you are figuring this out just as much as they are.

Tip 5: Utilise the wealth of resources online.

Most of us parents are attempting some level of homeschooling right now. You may have received activities and worksheets from their class teacher or the kids may be completing online learning. Don't forget that you can always utilize the wealth of information and activities online, that are most often free, engaging, creative and best of all fun! I have created a Kids At Home Resource Pack for parents to print all over the world, and it’s right here on my website right now. There are tonnes of educational, interactive videos on YouTube as well. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that kids just have to finish the school work set by the teacher. This is your time to be creative and really connect with your kids, and help them learn in the way that they love to.

>>> I have created a Kids At Home Resource Pack for parents to print all over the world, and it’s right here on my website right now. Grab your copy by downloading it from the website now!

By Stephanie Pinto.