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Tips for parents and carers

  • When you feel calm, it will help your children feel calm. Think about who makes you feel better and make a point of getting in touch with them or watch this video from the Anna Freud Centre.
  • Planning your day is important for you and your children. Many of us feel better with a routine, there are templates online, here is one idea.
  • Exercising each day is good for our body and our mind. Why not exercise together as a family - try Joe Wickes’ daily PE sessions.        
  • Keeping an eye on what you and your children are eating can help you feel better. If your children usually receive free school meals, you may still be able to by contacting your local education authority. Read advice on eating well at home.  
  • Saving time spent preparing meals can free up time for other activities to help you stay happy and healthy at home. Take some inspiration from these meal plans, shopping lists, food swap ideas and #familyfood recipes.
  • Thinking about how much you talk about your worries in front of your children and how it effects them is important. Read advice on talking to children about coronavirus
  • Challenging yourself or finding something that absorbs you. This may be trying out a new hobby with your children - you could try mindfulness colouring sheets on the Children in Need website.
  • Trying to practice positive thinking. Each day try to notice three things that have gone ok, big or small. You can do this as a family and keep a journal, have a look here for ideas

We also have a children and young people’s page with tips and advice that you could look at with your children.