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A Foreword for Parent in

the Time of COVID-19

It’s no secret that parenting in the age of COVID-19 is a profoundly challenging and

daunting task, as we try to navigate through uncharted territory and juggle many more hats
than we ever anticipated. We are all making it up as we go, and that’s okay! Give yourself

permission to make mistakes and be kind and compassionate with yourself and your family

as you all stumble through this time of uncertainty. As parents, we can work to validate and

normalize the confusion, disappointment and many loses that are a part of the sheltering-in-

place, while at the same time use this as an opportunity to emphasize the important work
kids are doing, by keeping people safe by saying home! From a young age, children

understand and value the importance of feeling safe. This can be as simple as saying

something like this:

“It IS disappointing that you cannot see your friends today. We are very proud of you for
doing your part by staying home to keep your friends and family safe.”

Take deep breaths and show your kids that it’s okay and completely normal to feel a wide
range of emotions that are a natural part of any time we encounter a big change.

Some days will be much harder than others, and that’s okay too.

We do have a chance to begin again each day, approaching with grace,

forgiveness, and compassion.

Lindsay Ulrey, PsyD

Clinical Psychologist