I hope everyone is well and finding ways to navigate the world with all of these rapid changes. Frozen 2 is now a staple both as a movie and soundtrack in our house. I find solace in Anna’s “Do The Next Right Thing”, and frustration with Olof’s “This Will All Make Sense When I Am Older”. Live in the small moments with your kids, it’s a nice break from the chaos of the world and the most supportive thing you can do for them.
I encourage you to find a routine that works for your family. It doesn’t have to be a color coded schedule, but predictability in the day helps sooth children’s anxiety. I made a detailed schedule for my kids, and it was too much. We opted for a checklist instead so that they have a little more control of when things happen. (It also allows for moments like this when everyone is happily reading, to continue). I am using screen time in the afternoon as an incentive. There are many resources including Scholastic. PPS put out a book about COVID-19 for kids to understand and ease fears COVIBOOK it is simple enough for preschoolers and takes a look at their emotions on the topic. Mo Williams, author of the wildly popular Elephant and Piggie books, is offering daily doodles with kids here. This list came from my son’s teacher and has wonderful ideas that are more nature and activity based. Many items would be challenging for preschoolers alone but with help are all great learning activities.
My biggest advice is, to snuggle up and read. Think of classics from your own childhood that they would enjoy. A few early chapter books with full color pictures on every page that I love are Mercy Watson, and The Princess in Black. Ebooks are available from the library, (not a bad time to get a hold list going) or other ebook sources. Coloring books are great at this age! Encourage holding crayons and pencils with a tripod finger grip. I highly recommend some adult coloring pages. It’s a great way to be with them and also have a little space.
Don’t underestimate the power of cardboard and a hot glue gun! Work with your kids to create something. Make some playdoh, take the water colors outside. Sprout seeds and plant a garden. Find time to move, walking, biking, yoga, dance party (this may be the stress reliever we all need). Facetime with grandparents, and friends, it will take some time for kids to warm up to this but they will get there, and it might just give parents those few moments they need.
On a wider community note the fruit stand down on 28th between Steel and Woodstock is well stocked with necessities, as is the Franz bread outlet on 45th near Johnson Creek. Several PPS schools including Grout are providing meals for all children 1-18. They can be picked up outside of the school from 11am-1pm this week. For more information from PPS and services they are making available to the community please visit Portland Public Schools Information / Coronavirus Resources.
Stay healthy friends, I sure do miss seeing all of your faces every day. Give your littles a hug from me.
Stay healthy.
Kindly,
Teacher Allisen