Creative Child September 2020 | Page 19

Teaching Parents have the unique opportunity to teach their own children during quarantine. Not only do they have a first row seat as their children participate in distance learning online but they also have the chance to teach them life skills while they are at home. Have your kids help with chores like laundry, house cleaning, and yard work. You can also teach them to balance a budget, work on organization skills,and plan, shop for, and cook meals. Help your kids plan a service project. Pick up groceries for a family who cannot safely go to the store, organize a canned food drive, or simply reach out to people who may feel lonely during quarantine. There are many opportunities to teach your kids lifelong skills during this extra time together. Extra time at home can be fun and relaxing some days and other days cause anxiety and feelings of loneliness. All of those feelings are normal and acceptable. Talk to your kids about what they are disappointed and sad about in an age appropriate way. Ask them what things have been a hidden blessing about being quarantined. Acknowledging these feelings will help everyone work through the negatives and celebrate the positives in a difficult situation. • 18