The pandemic, and subsequent quarantine, have taken a toll on everyone’s mental health; kids included. Overnight, we were thrust out of our normal routines and didn’t have access to what we usually did – socialization, being outdoors, hanging out in public places, going on playdates, and going to school, to name a few things.
Our little ones may not be able to express how they’re feeling as easily as we can, even though it can definitely still be challenging for us. With this in mind, it’s imperative that we check in with them and monitor how they’re doing, physically and mentally right now. Physical and emotional health are so interconnected that we have to consider both when analyzing a child’s general wellbeing. Here are five ways that you can begin to evaluate how your child is feeling and some tips on how to help them cope during the Pandemic.
1. Adequate Sleep
Getting enough rest isn’t just for newborns, it’s essential for all of us to function properly and feel our best. Since children aren’t in school physically right now, this can be a great time to monitor how much rest they’re getting and how many naps they’re taking. If your little one seems more tired than usual, keep in mind that stress and tension can directly affect levels of exhaustion, and often do. Read more here about how stay at home orders could be disrupting your child’s sleep. Make sure to listen if they don’t seem as active as usual and would rather take a rest.
2. Time to Play and Socialize With Others
With schools currently closed, there are fewer options for your child to socialize and interact with others. Although it doesn’t replace the real thing, there are still various ways that they can still play and engage with their peers. Our Live Online Classes are a great way to learn and virtually chat with their friends in an intimate and interactive setting. With no more than 6 students per class, your child can establish a meaningful relationship with their BümoTeacher, as well as their new friends!
3. Exercise
It’s not always easy to stay active when we can’t venture outside, but for some ideas of where to start, check out 5 Indoor Ways To Keep Kids Active This Winter. If you’re in search of physical movement and socialization, try Rock and Roll, Movers and Shakers, and BümoBoogie. These classes are packed full of learning, creativity, dancing, and music! Want to learn more about just how beneficial movement and dance are for your little one’s wellness? Read about The Surprising Benefits of Dance Classes for Children.
4. Healthy, Nutritious Food
Fruits and vegetables aren’t usually the first things that come to mind when thinking about a child’s favorite foods. What they consume, however, directly impacts their body, and therefore affects their mental health. Obviously, a treat from time to time is totally expected (and thoroughly enjoyed), but maintaining some form of healthy eating routine will be the most beneficial for your little one. While introducing them to certain foods can be daunting, it doesn’t have to be with this Step by Step Guide To Mealtime: Kids Edition.
5. Love and Support From Family Members and Loved Ones
Living in an encouraging and loving environment is paramount to anybody’s mental health, but especially so for a child who is still developing. Even though many of us are likely still stressed about the pandemic and its subsequent impact, we can find solace and comfort in those we love most. Spending quality time together is something that’s probably easier and more accessible than it’s ever been before.
Make sure to communicate with your child during these times! Ask them how they’re feeling and if there’s any way that you can help them. If you’re in search of some tips for yourself, check out 5 Simple Ways To Relieve Stress. This is perhaps one of the most simple steps that you can take, and also probably the most impactful.
Depending on the age of your child, some of these tips may be easier to utilize than others. No matter which you choose to try or not, just remember that no parent has all of the right answers. As long as you’re doing your best to care for your child, and are cognizant of their mental and physical wellbeing, you’re doing a great job.
