Coping Tools for Families

Coping with Anxiety about Returning to School

Parents and caregivers throughout the nation are experiencing stress about the uncertainties associated with returning to school. Whether you are concerned about your school’s specific plan to return to school, or disease exposure and prevention; these feelings are normal and are experienced by many parents during this transition.

Keeping Children Safe Online

With the recent changes in everyday life, children may be spending more and more time online. It is important that parents understand the threats that unsupervised online activities may pose to children. Please read our Social Media Safety article for tips on keeping your children safe, and follow the links provided to learn more about age-based guidelines, and general internet safety guidelines.

Self-Isolating Together

With all the changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, families may be dealing with new struggles at home. Meeting everyone’s need can be challenging and can put a strain on your relationships, even with those closest to you.

Helping Children Cope

Children can have strong reactions to disasters, which may vary depending on the child’s age. Staying calm and confident in your response to COVID-19 is the best way to support you children. For information on supporting your children before, during and after a disaster or traumatic event, you may refer to Helping Children Cope With Emergencies. This resource provides information on the common responses seen in children by age group and factors that may affect your child’s response.

Behavioral Issues in Children

Disruptions in normal routines can sometimes lead to behavioral problems in young children, including temper tantrums. There are many strategies to help you cope with temper tantrums and methods to curb this behavior. If you family is dealing with temper tantrums or other discipline problems, read more about Temper Tantrums and Your Young Child.

Parenting Resilience

The pressures of parenting can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when families must stay at home for extended periods of time. For information on why parents feel stressed, signs of stress, ways to cope with stress and relaxation tips, read more about Building Parenting Resilience.

Coping with Social Disruption

The social disruption associated with COVID-19 can leave people feeling isolated. Many people, including yourself, may need additional support during this time. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of distress, try using coping techniques like practicing self-care, establishing routines, and reflecting on the positives of your situation. Please refer to Dealing With the Effects of Social Disruption for more information on the symptoms of distress and coping techniques.

Additional Resources

The stress and anxiety associated with the COVID-19 pandemic can cause overwhelming feelings. Do you need additional emotional or mental health support to cope with the change in your family’s routine? Visit our Support Programs and Services page for information on programs and services offering support for your mental and/or emotional health needs.