LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM MR. ROGERS How the Television Star Shaped Childhoods
Fred Rogers may have passed away in 2003, but the world he created remains with us. In 2018, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” documented his life and outlook, and in 2019, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” depicted Rogers and the journalist whose life was changed by the star of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” These movies demonstrate that we’re still fascinated with the man behind Daniel Tiger and King Friday. Why? In part because the lessons Rogers so thoughtfully depicted are as relevant for today’s generation as they were for those who grew up watching his show. IMAGINATIVE PLAY IS A FOUNDATION OF CHILDHOOD. “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood,” Rogers said. Rogers knew that play, which can seem inconsequential
to grown-ups, is an important part of childhood development. Imaginative play allows children to step outside of their own perspective and experience another. In the process, they engage in abstract thinking and expand their universe. Mr. Rogers encouraged viewers to use their imaginations by creating a fantastical world called the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. WE ALL DESERVETO BE LOVED. Rogers knew that not everyone has someone at home who tells them that they are special and loved. So he took it upon himself to tell viewers, ending each episode of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” by saying, “You’ve made this day a special day by just your being you.” FEELINGS ARE MENTIONABLE AND MANAGEABLE. Rogers helped viewers understand that it’s okay to feel mad, sad, and scared, and he helped countless children learn
healthy ways to cope with tough emotions. This was a mission dear to his heart. Margaret McFarland, a child psychologist at the University of Pittsburgh who became the chief psychological consultant for “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” shared with Rogers the concept he turned to again and again on the show: “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and whatever is mentionable can be more manageable.” You can explore more of Mr. Rogers’ enduring messages at MisterRogers.org. Share “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” with your children and show them a world where they can grow, learn, and play.
YOUR ULTIMATE FACE MASK BREAKDOWN The Why, When, and How
Why do you need one?
How should you wear it?
The newest fashion accessory craze to hit the global market is protective face masks, and although it might seem like a great opportunity to flaunt your favorite colors and patterns, there’s actually a method behind the best ways to use your mask to achieve ultimate protection.
When humans cough, talk, and even breathe, particles leave their mouth and spread through the air, even if they’re often too small to see. With a contagious virus like COVID-19 that can spread via these particles, it’s necessary to cover your mouth and nose to protect yourself and those around you from contracting it.
Both reusable cloth masks and disposable paper ones are only effective in combination with frequent and proper hand-washing. Before donning a mask, clean your hands with alcohol- based sanitizer or soap and water. When you put your mask on, cover your nose and mouth, making sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask. Avoid touching your mask while wearing it, and if it becomes damp at any time, replace it. When you’re ready to remove your mask, always remove it from behind — don’t touch the front. Discard single-use masks immediately, and do not reuse cloth masks without washing them. Finally, wash your hands thoroughly after removing your mask. When you visit us, you’ll see everyone on our team wearing masks because our priority is your safety. Let’s all do our part in keeping those around us healthy by following the recommended protocols to the best of our abilities.
When should you wear one?
If you’re healthy, you only need to wear a face mask if you’re in close contact with a person who has contracted COVID-19. But because it’s impossible to know who has or hasn’t contracted it when you’re in a public place like a grocery store, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and wear a mask in any public area that puts you in close proximity with others. If you are coughing or sneezing for reasons outside COVID-19, it’s also best to wear one so you don’t potentially compromise anyone’s immune system.
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