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Helping kids avoid the pandemic blues

Posted at 4:46 PM, Dec 18, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-18 18:46:27-05

For many students across the country, it's the holiday break. While that can be fun and exciting, it can also be stressful, especially during the pandemic.

Experts recommend maintaining simple routines over the course of the break.

"That might mean going to sleep around the same time every day," said Jody Baumstein, licensed therapist. "Generally waking up around the same time too, and just by doing that, it lets our kids and ourselves know what to expect, which can really create a sense of comfort and security."

Baumstein says you should also practice healthy habits. Eat well, get good sleep, limit screen time and stay active. Kids should also know it's okay to say no.

"Instead of thinking about all the things we can't do, we really use it as an opportunity with our family to embrace change and think about what we can do instead."

Finally, stay connected to family and friends you can't see because of the pandemic.

"Instead of just having a regular phone call, consider turning it into a FaceTime or Zoom," said Baumstein.

The therapist says you'll need to plan for going back to school too. Acknowledge your child's feelings about the break ending, make a plan to spend quality time together so you both have something to look forward to.