School closures can be likened to hibernating like a winter animal. If you have access to them, read hibernation stories, for example, Frederick by Leo Lionni.
Grow gratitude with a daily gratitude practice. Share together what you are grateful for or keep a diary of gratitude.
Talk about people, places, and situations you each appreciate, supporting your child in expressing their thanks, for example, writing a letter to our essential workers or others in the community.
Spot fake news by discussing where to get information about COVID-19, determine reliable sources of information and discuss critical thinking skills.
Read and discuss the Newsroom article: Critical thinking in an age of fake news.
Help your child turn anxiety into action. Develop limits together on exposure to media and conversations about COVID-19. Share your strategies with your child and explore together which COVID-19 conversations are helpful.
Learn together about how to wash hands effectively. Useful resources include Nanogirl discussing how to teach handwashing (www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eqhw6yZk-c) and the UNICEF global handwashing dance (www.youtube.com/watch?v= 825gGELjB98). Involve children in developing plans for effective and fun hand hygiene at home.
Learn the phrase: He waka eke noa – we’re all in this together.
ADDITIONAL MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING RESOURCES
If your child is experiencing significant anxiety or distress during school closures, see these resources for additional guidance and support.
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