Quick Tip Sheet for Parental Self-Care in COVID-19 Crisis
Created by Arti Kumar-Jain, M.Ed, NCC, CYPFC, CHC, CPC
- Take “Mindful Moment Breaks” (get up and move around from screen)
- Take deep cleansing breaths
- Stretch your arms, legs, and whole body
- Read something engaging to you (Read to your child and have a D.E.A.R.: Drop Everything and Read Time in Your House
- Take a power nap; rest your eyes (from the screen)
- Open the windows; go for a quick walk
- Eat a nutritious snack. (piece of fruit, handful of nuts, homemade juice, smoothie to sip on)
- Build into your calendar Playtime with your child/family
- Schedule free time for yourself (even 5-minute intervals
- Make a list of the things you wish to do (a Wish List)
- Connect with someone that pops into your head (choose a medium that works for you- phone, text, etc.)
- Light a candle and take a shower/bath at end of evening
- Allocate chores/responsibilities to others or save for another day
- Tell the family you need a break when you notice your feelings (becoming escalated)
- Be kind, patient, and loving to yourself! Do right by you—to give yourself to your family
- Watch or listen to a podcast; quick YouTube video that makes you laugh and brings you joy
- Be kind, patient, and loving to yourself! Do right by you—to give yourself to your family
