We look at how lockdown has impacted our lives and the important lessons learned during this time.
Bright Heart
How many of these lessons learned under lockdown can you relate to?
Lessons learned under lockdown
As parents, our hearts’ desire is to see our children reach their potential and perform at their best. This could be on the sports field, in artistic pursuits or in the classroom.
Lockdown added extra stress to many of our lives by placing the burden of our children’s education squarely on our shoulders via homeschooling. For some, that meant tears, tantrums and unforeseen pressure.
In this blog, we highlight 5 key lessons learned during lockdown.
1. Emotional well-being before academic performance
One of the main lessons learned during lockdown was the importance of supporting our children emotionally. This meant putting an emphasis on their well-being before fretting over their academic progress. Sometimes a hug and a few words of reassurance at the right time can spare tears over a looming assignment and keep things running smoothly.
Don’t be shy to step back for a moment and take a break with your child. This creates room for connection before returning to school-related tasks.
2. The power of routine
It may have been challenging for you to manage work responsibilities, household chores and the needs of your family and children. Especially when still finding time for essential exercise. We heard the collective cries of ‘What day is it?’ on more than one occasion.
Whilst in the throes of chaos, there is a lot to be said for creating and maintaining routine. Daily meals at regular times, regular bed times, daily exercise and daily work / schoolwork during set times help to keep the family ship on a steady course.
3. There is no shame in asking for help
Lockdown has been a source of stress. It has negatively impacted on the mental health of adults and children in the UK and globally. Some reports have cited up to 65 per cent of children struggling with boredom and feelings of isolation during lockdown .
For you and your children, looking after your mental health is imperative. There is no shame in asking for help. A number of not-for-profit organisations have made their services and additional COVID-19 resources available (see our blog post on Your child’s mental health during times of stress).
4. Managing disappointment
Whether we have had to cancel travel plans, or had exciting events such as birthday parties, weddings or concerts postponed or shifted online, we have all needed to come to terms with disappointment. This can be especially challenging for children and teenagers. Parents can intervene, however, to help them handle disappointment in a positive manner.
Teach them that there are almost always alternatives available, if they are only prepared to look for them with an open mind. Also, a postponed holiday or event is something that can be looked forward to.
5. Being present is enough
Parents are the most important people in a child’s life. No matter what the circumstances, as long as a parent is nearby, a child feels safe. A child doesn’t really need you to play with her / him all the time. Instead, they value you being around for them to feel secure.
Our children don’t really need lots of toys to be happy. Simpler activities are still entertaining. For example, try gardening, hopscotch or skipping with a rope, board games, cooking or other household chores. Remember, your presence is what your children crave and need most.
Any advice or tips you could offer others to learn from? We would love to hear about it on our Facebook page, or feel free to get in touch directly with any questions.
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