As a school psychologist for too many years to count, I have to say that of all the students who have shared their experiences and insights with me, perhaps it is the kindergartners who have taught me the most about good mental health during times of stress. I share some of their wisdom, in hopes it will help you, as well, as you negotiate this new role of homeschooling in our distance learning world!
1. Skip everywhere you go. It is a proven fact that no one can be sad when they are skipping. Skip from one side of the kitchen to the other, skip through the living room, skip down the driveway to get the mail, and encourage your children to do the same. It is, in fact, a law of nature that there is no way you can get hurt if you are skipping. I am thinking of advocating this at school, as well: teachers should skip from one side of the classroom to the other; the superintendent and principals should skip down the hallway; and all students are to skip to and from recess, music and gym. Of course, our school rules would also need to change: Be Ready; Be Respectful; Be Responsible; Be a Skipper!
2. Grab your blankee and curl up with it in your favorite spot, in a darkened room, after lunch. I believe the whole family should enact this rest ritual. Thumb-sucking, however, should not be encouraged because of sanitary reasons.
3. Ask lots of open-ended questions. These answers are much more interesting than questions about a story you've read or the answer to a math problem. You also get lots of good information about how to handle life. For example, “When you can't find your mom in the store, what should you do?” Answer: You should drop down on the floor, crawl and sniff! (Who would have guessed??) Another good piece of advice: “When you are feeling stressed, what will make you feel better?” Answer: Go to your happy place inside your head and think only happy thoughts! (I, personally, have found this very helpful!)
4. Check to see if there is a puppet in your house. If you have one (or more), be sure to talk to your children through the puppet. Have the puppet tell them their chores for the day, when it is time for distance learning, and maybe the puppet could even teach a lesson or two. Kindergartners have taught me that puppets definitely increase life satisfaction!
5. Perhaps the best way to prevent burnout, however, is with lots of reassurance, encouragement, and affirmation – not only for your children, but for yourself, as well. Take a minute to review this WHA Wellness website for resources, ideas, and strategies on taking care of yourself and your family.