Supporting Our Students: A Parent Guide to Social, Emotional, and Academic Wellness During COVID-19

Supporting Our Students

A PA R E N T G U I D E TO S O C I A L , EMOTIONAL, AND ACADEMIC WELLNESS DURING COVID-19

A PUBLICATION OF THE CHC GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT

Dear Cape Henry Collegiate Families,

As the Guidance Counseling Department at Cape Henry Collegiate, we strive to support the social, emotional, and academic wellness of all students enrolled within our school. We know that keeping families healthy is of the utmost importance if we are going to foster the best learning environment possible. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread disruption to education all over the world. It has both increased the importance of close knit school communities and pushed the value of school-family-community partnerships to the forefront.

The following guide is designed to help you navigate the 2020-2021 school year.

We hope to be on campus as much as is safely possible. However, we know that some students may have to learn remotely at some points in the year. With that in mind, the following suggestions and resources are meant to help guide CHC families through any challenges that may come our way this year.

Coretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of community is often measured by the compassionate actions of its members�. Now more than ever, we hope that our community will come together to foster the best learning environment possible. Please feel free to contact each of us at any time if your family needs additional support.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Taria Conley Lower School Counselor tariaconley@capehenry.org

Mrs. Amy Wight Middle School Counselor amywight@capehenry.org

Mrs. Jill Qualters Upper School Counselor jillqualters@capehenry.org

S U P P O R T I N G

Social Emotional Wellness I N

S C H O O L - A G E D

C H I L D R E N

Whether students are at school or at home, working on campus or remotely, parents play a critical role in supporting the social and emotional well-being of their child.

SOCIAL SUPPORT  CONNECT WITH LOVED ONES // Help your child connect with others. Talk about your feelings and enjoy conversation unrelated to the outbreak.  MAINTAIN SCHOOL AND PEER CONNECTIONS // Whether students are attending class in person or working remotely, it is important to maintain school community and social connections outside of the classroom. To whatever extent you are comfortable with, encourage your children to connect with their peers via virtual platforms or socially distanced play dates, sports, and music.  MAKE TIME TO UNWIND // Schedule family nights. Play board games, introduce your child to your favorite movies, and relax as a family. Selfcare is important for parents and caregivers—take time to de-stress and nourish yourself.

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SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS: A PARENT GUIDE TO SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND ACADEMIC WELLNESS DURING COVID-19

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT  BE A ROLE MODEL // School aged children look to their parents for guidance on how to view the world. Model good coping strategies and let them know it’s healthy to discuss feelings. Try and shield children from stressful or non-age appropriate conversations. Limit exposure to the news, especially for younger children.  TALK ABOUT FEELINGS // Let your child know that you are there to provide support and listen if/when they need to talk. There may be some reluctance to discuss feelings, especially if they’re upset about the uncertainty of the situation. Reassure your child that all these feelings are okay.  DISCUSS EFFORTS IMPLEMENTED TO ENSURE THEIR SAFETY // It may be helpful to have a conversation about your family’s plan of action and the important role your child plays in that plan. Let them know that frequent hand washing, social distancing, and wearing face coverings help to reduce the chances of contracting and/or spreading the virus. Empowering our children with responsibilities and meaningful actions they can take, reduces feelings of helplessness and anxiety.  DEVELOP A TOOLBOX OF CALMING TECHNIQUES // When stress and emotions take over, engage these strategies to help ease the anxiety you or your child may be feeling.

 JUST BREATHE // Take a deep breath, count to 5, then slowly exhale.  RELAX YOUR BODY // From the top of your head to the tip of your toes, relax your shoulders, flex and release all the muscles in your body.  GET MOVING // physical activity helps to release negative feelings. Go for a brisk walk, do jumping jacks, go for a run (endless possibilities).  ASSIGN “HELPING” PROJECTS // Working to help others may lessen feelings of isolation and anxiety. Brainstorm ways for your child to help at home or in the neighborhood. Making a card for someone or doing something to help a neighbor or others in need may help children feel more socially connected.  REINFORCE THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION // Stay active. Make sure to reinforce healthy sleep patterns. Avoid a lot of caffeine or junk food. Eat healthy foods when possible. Get a healthy amount of sleep.

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ACADEMIC SUPPORT DURING REMOTE LEARNING When students are learning remotely, parents play an integral role in providing academic support for their child. Below are some suggestions to help set your child up for success:  MAKE SURE THEY’RE READY // If your child is learning remotely, make sure they are able to access online classes and lessons, and ensure that they complete assignments in a timely manner. Have your child help create a “study space” that is fun and inspiring.  CREATE A SCHEDULE // Most children perform better when their day is structured and they know what to expect. In addition to school work, don’t forget to include time for play and snacks, as well as time away from screens.  ROUTINES MATTER // Routines during times of uncertainty are extremely important for our children, especially now. Develop a school work routine to allow a specific time to focus on academics/school work. Encourage the use of a planner and checklists to help your child stay focused on tasks.  CONDUCT DAILY CHECK-INS // Reinforce lessons by talking about what your child has learned each day as well as review what your child has completed, check for understanding and discuss whether additional assistance is needed.  STAY INVOLVED // Whether your child can work independently, or requires more support to stay on task, determine what they need and respond accordingly. Stay attuned to the materials covered in class, assignments and due dates.  STAY INFORMED // It’s very important to read all school communications and reach out if you have any questions or concerns.  SUPPLEMENT LEARNING // It may be helpful to supplement your child’s lessons with free learning resources and Apps. Always feel free to reach out to your teacher(s) and the counselors if you need help finding good supplemental resources.

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SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS: A PARENT GUIDE TO SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND ACADEMIC WELLNESS DURING COVID-19

REMOTE LEARNING ETIQUETTE FOR MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL Below are some ways that older students can take ownership of their own success during remote learning:  USE SELF CONTROL • Follow your teacher’s instructions.

• Wait for your turn to speak and/or contribute.

• Use the “raise your hand” feature.

• Minimize your distractions.

• Utilize chat functions appropriately.  STAY ON TASK • Log into your classes on time from an appropriate location (desk, table) • Keep a document of teacher Zoom links so that you know where to go.

• Organize your materials ahead of time.

• Set daily and weekly goals.

• Use a planner and/or calendar to keep track of due dates.

• Make yourself visible on camera at all times.

• Have a backup plan if you get disconnected.  ACHIEVEMENT • Complete tasks on time and stay on top of assignments.

• Be prepared for class each day.

• Reach out to your teacher if needed via email or Zoom.

• Contact your school counselor with concerns about your academics, work completion, or any confusion around remote learning.

• Share and collaborate with peers when possible.

• Create a space to complete your assignments that is separate from where you sleep, eat and play.

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 RESPECT • Mute microphone when others are speaking and be aware of your surroundings and any ambient noise.

• Respect others’ perspectives.

• Use chat wisely - do not discuss other students in the chat.

• Use proper text etiquette. ALL CAPS, bold, italics, sarcasm and jokes can come across poorly in a remote environment.

• Remember your digital footprint matters-keep it helpful and positive.

• Help each other during group assignments and in meeting rooms.

• Resolve conflict peacefully - reach out to your counselors or your administrators.  WELLNESS • Give yourself digital breaks-try to spend some time outside each day.

• Take care of your body-get enough sleep and eat healthy foods.

• Stay connected to family and friends.

• Find ways to relax and de-stress such as journaling, taking a walk or listening to music.

• Be kind to yourself! Use positive self-talk.

• Recognize and share how you are feeling with trusted adults at home or school. Your counselors are here to support you individually and in small groups.

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SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS: A PARENT GUIDE TO SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND ACADEMIC WELLNESS DURING COVID-19

Coping with COVID-19 N A T I O N A L

I N S T I T U T E

O F

M E N T A L

H E A L T H

Take Breaks from the News Take Care of Your Body Make Time to Unwind Connect with Others Set Goals/Priorities Focus on the Facts

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ONLINE RESOURCES FOR NAVIGATING MENTAL HEALTH AND QUALITY EDUCATION DURING THE PANDEMIC

Supporting Children’s Mental Health: Tips for Parents and Educators NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Parenting in a Pandemic: Tips to Keep the Calm at Home HEALTHYCHILDREN.ORG

Teens & COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities During the Outbreak HEALTHYCHILDREN.ORG

NCTSN Resources Related to COVID-19 NATIONAL CHILD TRAUMA STRESS NETWORK

How You and Your Kids Can De-Stress During the Coronavirus Pandemic PBS

Helping Children Cope With Changes Resulting From COVID-19 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS

How Teenagers Can Protect Their Mental Health During COVID-19 UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND (UNICEF)

Building Positive Conditions for Learning at Home: Strategies and Resources for Families and Caregivers AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF RESEARCH

What Parents Need to Know About COVID-19 | Parent Resources

Simple Activities for Children and Adolescents

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF THE KING’S DAUGHTERS (CHKD)

NATIONAL CHILD TRAUMA STRESS NETWORK

Time to Come In Bear: A Children’s Story About Social Distancing LOWER SCHOOL APPROPRIATE

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SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS: A PARENT GUIDE TO SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND ACADEMIC WELLNESS DURING COVID-19

LOCAL AND NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

Child & Youth Behavioral Health Services VBGOV.COM

Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health | Norfolk, Va.

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF THE KING’S DAUGHTERS (CHKD)

NAMI Coastal Virginia

KEMPSVILLECBH.COM

NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Norfolk – CrisisLink A 24/7 Crisis Hotline

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

(757) 622-1126

Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center

Crisis Text Line

(757) 627-LIFE (5433)

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Mental Health Program

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TEXT HOME TO 741741 TO TEXT WITH A TRAINED COUNSELOR

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1320 Mill Dam Road | Virginia Beach, Virginia | 23454-2306 | capehenrycollegiate.org