PARENTING TIP:
One advantage of being all stuck at home, is we are able to have family meals together. But sometimes it’s hard to find something other than coronavirus to talk about. But we’re all sick of thinking about it. We’ve found that creating a family meal conversation ritual for each day of the week, has helped us have more fun and connect deeper. Sample ideas include: Preview of the Week, Family Autobiography, Conversation Cards, Gratitude Prompt
SELF-CARE TIP:
Write a friend a day (on email or via postal mail) of why I'm thankful for them and sharing some memories, etc. It makes me feel good, and them feel good during this time. A little shift from the anxiety of working this time out in our heads. If you don't have a ton of time, even a quick little note does the trick.
NATURE LOCATION SUGGESTION:
Llloyd Lake, Golden Gate Park - Slightly smaller but no less beautiful that Stowe Lake, this little gem has a creek and waterfall that flow into it as well. Children can have endless fun chasing sticks down the stream and then throwing them in at the final destination!
INDOOR ACTIVITY:Caterpillar wrap or burrito. Wrap your child up tight in blankets making up a game where they are a caterpillar or burrito. This deep pressure input has a calming effect as it activates a child's proprioceptive sense -the same sense that is activated when climbing a playground structure or hanging on a monkey bar. Since they may not be getting these as much as we would like, try this game instead! You can even put on music as they emerge into a butterfly and likely they will want to do this again and again (and again!).