Resources are important for families especially in the midst of a pandemic such as COVID-19. Parents and children are struggling with education being shifted online causing massive disruption in their lives. Parents are experiencing job loss, financial insecurities, sometimes no childcare, having to quit their jobs to tend to the children, some are working and managing both, and having to help their children with their virtual learning. Children are experiencing frustration, loss of friends, their classroom is now online, and children with special needs, ADHD, and more are having to adjust.
Resources for students for virtual learning:
This website has free resources for elementary school students to high school. Apps or websites are used but can help with different subjects such as Math, Art, English, and Science.
Resources for parents for virtual learning:
This website shows a list of great resources parents can use to learn and support their children with virtual learning. Also, it provides information for essential needs, emotional support, supporting children with disabilities, and can help families who may be homeless or a child who may be in foster care.
What are some effective coping strategies that will help with the family’s adjustment to virtual learning?
Families all over are dealing with many stressors and we all need coping strategies to try and relieve that stress. First, the website mentions practicing self-care, “Self-care is the practice of individuals looking after their own health using the knowledge and information available to them. It is a decision-making process that empowers individuals to look after their own health efficiently and conveniently, in collaboration with health and social care professionals as needed.” Self-care can be getting enough rest, exercising, eating well, and trying mindfulness apps. I think another great coping strategy could be therapy to help with the normative and non-normative stressors we face, such as virtual learning in a pandemic. Therapy is a great way to maintain self-care by caring about your mental and physical health.
Finding ways to focus is another great coping strategy to try and stay motivated. I recommend making a routine and not just sitting on the couch just eating potato chips! This is a great coping strategy while the pandemic is causing harsh times and even when the pandemic is over a great routine can improve stressors afterwards.
Communicating with friends and family can help maintain your sense of social life. The pandemic has caused us to be stuck in our home with our families but sometimes we can still need support from others.
Another coping strategy I saw that seemed fitting was limiting time on social media. Everyone is dealing with the pandemic differently but we must remember to get outside, spend time with our family, and enjoy our time without technology. Also, seeing so much news and information about COVID-19 can be so draining to your mental health. Limit yourself on your phone but stay informed! Find your balance!
What other resources are there?
Phone numbers you call as resources:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800)-273-8255
Alcohol and Drug Helpline: (800) 821-4357
Families Anonymous: (800) 736-9805
Child Protection Hotline (Los Angeles County DCFS) Within CA (800) 540-4000 / Outside CA (213) 283-1960
Judge Baker Children’s Center – Child Abuse Hotline: (800) 792-5200
Child Help USA National Child Abuse Hotline: (800) 422-4453
National Domestic Violence Hotline
(800) 799-7233
National US Child Abuse Hotline
(800) 422-4453
Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention
(800) 931-2237
Teen Help Adolescent Resources
(800) 840-5704
National Help Line for Substance Abuse
(800) 262-2463