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Vail family university presents... ADVICE FOR PARENTS & FAMILIES DURING COVID-19

A pandemic can make us feel hopeless and unsure, particularly when trying to balance all of the changes for ourselves and our family. We worry if we are doing right by our kids, will they be "damaged" because of this, how do we keep them psychologically healthy? Well there is good news, when we study people and children who have been through catastrophic events like a disaster or a pandemic, we find more hope than despair in the results. Our children are far more resilient than we often believe. We will briefly talk about what helps us to be resilient in the face of challenging situations. This will be followed by some practical tips on how to talk to our children about COVID-19 as well as some warning signs of stress and what to do about it.

key points to remember
  • Children are more resilient than we think.
  • Resilient people focus on how they can overcome a challenge vs. why the event is occurring.
  • Breaking up the negative talk cycle is important for regaining predictability and control when we are overwhelmed.
  • Our biggest mistake we make when supporting our children during a crisis is to underestimate their psychological strength and project our fears onto them.
  • Most important, take this time to engage in fun activities with your children that you don't normally do (i.e. play their favorite video game with, listen to music, cook together, watch cartoons or movies with them, etc.).

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746

session presented by
Dr. Katie Pierce

Dr. Katie Pierce has been working as a clinical psychologist with the U.S. Navy for the past 10 years. Throughout her career, she has worked as clinical psychologist providing therapy and psychological services individually and in groups. The past 5 years, her focus has primarily been on resiliency programs and mental health prevention efforts. Currently, she oversees a human factors department assisting in the training of resiliency and adapting to isolation environments. She and her husband have two daughters 6 and 9 years old. They are enjoying the joyous and often chaotic times that this phase of life brings everyday.

Vail School District Disclaimer: The Vail School District is neither endorsing nor promoting this program. The distribution of this information is provided as a public service to parents.