As self isolation becomes a reality for many of us, we are finding ourselves in long-term close quarters with our family and loved ones.  Many of us used to complain we did not get enough time with those we love, and now we have that opportunity in abundance.   Who better to be close to than our loved ones, and what better place to be together than the comfort of our own homes?  Well, this much togetherness combined with an acutely stressful period in human history can make for some challenges as well as gifts. 

Here are some tips on how to mange your relationship and family time during the COVID-19 crisis.

The coronavirus has just been declared a pandemic by the World Heath Organization, meaning that it is likely to spread to all countries in the world. This does not mean we give up on efforts to contain it, but rather we need to continue to support public health interventions that can limit the spread of the virus even where it is transmitting on this scale. The news and social media are constantly updating on developments pertaining to the coronavirus. The anxiety surrounding the coronavirus is high in the world right now, and this anxiety can become overwhelming to our children who are witnessing this alarming situation. No matter what age or stage it is important to connect with your children and have conversations about the coronavirus.

Here are some tips on how to manage these conversations.

September is the “New Year” for most children and youth as they enter the school year.  Here are some tips for parents on how to deal with “Stresstember” and how parents can support children/teens in dealing with the back to school anxiety/reality.

As a Divorce and Separation Specialist who has assisted many families during family transitions, I have commonly guided parents in how to talk with their children about Divorce and Separation. Although many parents dread having this difficult conversation with their children – if it is done well it can build more secure parent child relationships. As a counsellor working with youth and families it is inevitable that one will encounter parents who are separating, and it is valuable to have some practical tips for parents as they lead their children through a changing family landscape. As a counsellor you may also be going through your own family changes at some point and struggling with how to help your children while you help others. Challenging events and difficult conversations are part of life and can be opportunities for growth. Talking to children about these difficult topics can demonstrate to them that the adults have their best interests at heart, and that they can come to the adults for information and guidance.

Often, as parents, we are interested in learning about how to raise our children to be the best they can be. Not as commonly do we ask “How is my child raising me?” After all, as adults, we are still growing up too!

Let’s face it: our children have a way of bringing out emotions in us that we may not have known we had before becoming parents! We may find ourselves having a temper tantrum or digging in our heels with a big “No!”, or trying to retreat away from handling the situation. It is in these moments that we are being offered a mirror. And if we have the courage to look, with compassion towards ourselves, we are being given the unique opportunity to grow-up and benefit our children in the process.