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Prioritize play. Big feelings often manifest themselves physically, like stomach or headaches, but kids don’t always have the insight or communication tools to convey those issues like adults do, says Warfield. Because of difficulty verbalizing feelings, opportunities to play together are critical. And adults need a break from the everyday, too. “If you join them through play, you’ll learn a lot about them and connect while doing it,” said Lankford-Gordon. Take time to be silly, play games and create art. Prioritize simply being with one another. “They are more concerned about what is happening in their home than what’s happening in the world,” said Johnson. “Being fully present as much as possible will alleviate anxiety.”
Get grateful. Cultivating gratitude is powerful for kids and adults alike, an opportunity to reduce stress and anxiety and keep things in perspective. Lankford-Gordon suggests coming up with something you are grateful for together every day. “You can make these a visual reminder and post them on a wall or window,” said Lankford-Gordon. “Cut out hearts, use Post-it notes, use whatever you have and have fun with it!” Make space for hugs and infuse family time with positivity and perspective.
“Embrace conversation filled with the ways this time will bring us closer as a family and provide space for us to try new things, create, rest, play, eat and explore the world from our homes together,” said Johnson. We’re not going to be perfect and neither are our kids. Offer grace (to yourself and your kids), ask for forgiveness and refocus on kindness and compassion as often as needed. Above all else, Lankford-Gordon says just keep talking.
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