Anyone could be freaked out by all the changes surrounding a global viral pandemic, and kids are no exception.
In this Bonus Episode, Katie talks to therapist Harini Sukumaran about how we can work through our kids' anxieties in a HEALTHY way.
What day is it again? It doesn’t matter. It’s another day in quarantine and we’ve got a new Bonus Episode with expert advice (i.e. not ours, like an actual professional).
Kids, just like adults, can have anxiety during the best of times. How about in the midst of a global pandemic where routines and everyday life are upended? Yeah, that might trigger some anxiety as well.
Thankfully, Katie was able to talk with Harini Sukumaran, founder and clinical director at MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC. She was able to provide some insight and actionable advice on not freaking our kids out during quarantine.
Highlights of our conversation include:
What’s the best way to approach discussing the virus (and the changes in daily life) with our kids?
What do those discussions look like based on their age?
The difference between fear and anxiety
How often should we be checking in with our kids about their feelings/anxiety?
Color Your Heart Exercise
Are there subtle (or less than subtle) cues that we should look out for in terms of how our kids are dealing with anxiety?
Having hard conversations around not being able to do certain activities that they really enjoy
Moving forward with a plan for online school
Navigating kid friendships during quarantine
Family gratitude exercises
You can get in touch with Harini at MindTree’s website, Facebook page, via email, or by phone at 503-766-4895.
You can also find out more about upcoming Facebook Live discussions on the Portland Mom Collective Facebook page.