Two weeks with no school, no place to go, and no social gatherings can feel pretty overwhelming for just about everyone during Winter Break in the midst of a global pandemic. However, it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Yes, some days may feel pretty crummy, but you can get through it with some basic strategies.
“I always emphasize with parents the importance of managing expectations. It’s huge for kids and teenagers so there are no surprises which can lead to outbursts and anger,” said Stephanie Rouse, LCSW, Plena Mind Center, Northbrook.
How do you begin? Rouse says work with your kids to create some structure and routine through daily or weekly schedules. For example, set meal times, designate screen time and screen-free time, or schedule social time with friends online. If your children are old enough to spend time by themselves, let them know when the adults in the house have something else to do, but give the kids guidance before setting them free. Make a list of activities or chores in advance so they have choices and focus. “When kids are bored, that’s when they act out,” said Rouse.
Even with structure and planning, expect that not every moment will be smooth sailing. Teens will get irritable. Children will meltdown. Adults will lose their cool. We’ve all been there. When that happens, Rouse says, acknowledge the feelings openly and honestly. Validate the difficulties you and your children are experiencing, let them know it’s not easy to be stuck at home with limited ability to see friends and family, and take the time to listen and really answer their questions if that’s what they are seeking.
What about all that screen time? Yes, technology is the lifeline to the outside world these days so it’s tempting to let the kids use it day and night if they’re socializing with friends. Still, Rouse says screens need limits. She urges parents to take away electronics overnight because kids tend to pick them up at all hours if they are within reach. She also suggests parents encourage kids to socialize in other ways. For instance, young children may enjoy actually writing a letter and sending it to a friend through the mail.
Self-care is critical. If you aren’t sleeping, exercising, and taking care of yourself, you’re more likely to get frustrated. “Parents should make sure they get time to themselves. If they are feeling good, interactions with everyone will be better,” said Rouse.
About Plena Mind Center, Northbrook
Plena offers outpatient Pediatric Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs for children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, attention and focus concerns, suicidal ideation, self-injurious behaviors, school refusal, and attachment concerns. It’s team consists of a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, licensed clinical psychologist, licensed clinical social workers, licensed educational specialist, and a recreation specialist.
