All of us have been plunged into living in the midst of a pandemic in ways that none of us

could have predicted. There is a ton of information out there on how we as adults can still try to maintain our sanity and grounded in the midst, which is such a gift truly. What I want to do today though, is to give a few tips to the parents or guardians who are now home with

children, especially younger children, and how they can walk through this season of life with

their Littles.

1. Create a daily schedule for your kiddos

This allows you as the parent or guardian to still maintain some structure in the lives of your

little ones, especially in a time when their normal schedules have been so uprooted. Children thrive on schedules and routines, and they now find themselves in a situation where all of that has been halted and has to change.

The structure can ease the transition and help to keep their systems grounded. It also gives you some sense of solace as the adult because you won't have to be worrying every 5 minutes about how to keep them busy. Naps, meals, school time, play time - all of that can be incorporated into their schedules.

2. Make spending time outside with them a priority

Children have A LOT of energy, and being cooped up inside is just as frustrating for them as it is for us as grown ups. Allowing them to spend some time outside in the sunshine gives

them the vitamin D we all need, and it also allows them to burn off the pent up energy they

have. Them being able to share that space with you as they do is a huge bonus. It allows

you to still connect with them while they enjoy some sense of independence with being on

the outdoors.

3. Connect, Connect, Connect

As human beings, we ALL thrive and need human connection and human interaction. In the

era of lockdown and quarantine, this is something we don't have the privilege of

experiencing as freely in person as we once did. Connecting with you as their caregivers at

home as lovingly and safe as possible is important for their well being. We have all had to

adjust to video calls, phone calls, and figuring out how to still stay connected virtually. Even if your Littles can't hug and kiss their aunties, uncles and grandparents, ensuring that they are still given the opportunity to connect virtually is important and healthy.

This is an ongoing and ever changing time we find ourselves in, and I hope you'll remember

to be kind, gracious and patient with yourself as you go through it. Remember, your kiddos

are adapting and adjusting as much as you are, and they may not always express that

distress in the best ways possible. Be softer & more compassionate - it will go a long way.

Kathilia Edghill Staff Blogger Kathilia Edghill is a creative soul from the island of Barbados. She is an avid Mental

Health advocate, she is an Individual, Couples and Family Therapist, and the

founder of Wings of Grace Counselling. Kathilia loves Jesus, her family, and the

beach.