Do you ever wonder when all the craziness around us will stop? Being out of school for COVID-19 is new territory for all of us. Teachers and staff have been working hard to prepare material for students to do at home. We are all trying to maintain "social distance" from each other, while still making sure our families have enough groceries and other things we need. Some members of our community have to work, either for financial reasons and/or because of being an essential worker. Others will not be allowed to work and will worry about how to pay their bills. Whichever category you might fall into, I hope for the best for your family.
I am feeling anxious as much about my students as the virus itself, although the virus makes me more nervous than I thought I would be. The earthquake this morning didn't help either. I don't think I'm alone in my worry (based on the empty store shelves I've seen). I think an important thing for us to focus on is to stay calm and help each other in any way possible. Here are a few ideas you can try to stay sane and calm during this time: Take care of basic needs. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Drink water throughout the day. Take a walk or move around in some way. Eat healthy food. You will function better if your basic needs are met. *Remember breakfast and lunch will be provided at the school, even through spring break, on a daily basis.* Maintain a routine. Even if your whole family is home, you can set a schedule for school work, meals, exercise and play time. Use coping skills. Everyone has mental health needs. To stay mentally healthy, or to improve your mental state, try using healthy coping skills. These might include mindfulness or meditation (there are a lot of apps or free Youtube videos that can guide you through this process). Listen to music, draw, write, journal, or find another activity that helps you feel happy and calm. Stay connected. We have to maintain physical distance, and that is challenging for many people. We might not be able to hug a lot right now, but connect with others in whatever ways you can. Use social media, Facetime, or even an old fashioned phone call. We are social creatures. We all need each other to get through this challenge. (Just wash your hands!) Reach out. If you find that you or your family is struggling, reach out. I am sending home a resource packet to our families that includes information on food banks, health care and other resources, as well as mental health resources. SafeUT is available by phone or through the app, which is on both android and iphone. This service is available 24/7 for anyone in need. Finally, students and families are invited to call me to check in or if you are in need. My phone number during this time is 801-448-5690. Please let me know if you need anything. Stay safe and healthy, and we will see each other on the other side of this crisis.
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AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
April 2020
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