In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, BStrong Together is honored to partner with the Barrington Area Library for Best We Can Parenting - a new virtual parenting series to help parents navigate the challenges of our new world.  For more information and to register for upcoming sessions, visit balibrary.org.

In Session 2, therapist Alex Goreham from Stenzel Clinical Services discusses how to support our younger children during these difficult times as well as shares tips and his BE SMART model for parents of all ages.  Alex reminds us that it's okay to not be okay and to give ourselves the space to know that we don't have to be perfect parents.  What is important is our outlook, staying present in the moment, modeling positive coping strategies, and just being there to support our children during this unusual time.

Questions asked during the session include:

• What do you think my 4-year-old will remember what happened during this time as they get older?
• You mentioned that its okay to give more screen time to my kid who is stuck at home. Do you have a recommendation on how much screen time is good?
• You talked about checking-in emotionally your spouse. I feel like my husband does not listen well all the time. What do I do with that?
• One of the things lost with this is personal space - everyone is sharing the same space. Any ideas for providing opportunities for alone time.

Additionally, the Barrington Area Library requested feedback for future programming for children while we are practicing the Center for Disease Control’s recommendations on safe social distancing.  Please complete this quick survey with your  suggestions.

Resources given during Session 2

BE SMART Handout

5-4-3-2-1 Mindfulness

Technique Handout

5-Star Breathing Handout

Color Breathing Handout

4-square Breathing Handout

Game and App Recommendations from the Barrington Area Library

Additional articles

Tips for Parenting During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak

Caring for Yourself and Young Children During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Crisis

Young Children at Home during the COVID-19 Outbreak: The Importance of Self-Care

Let Them Play!  By Themselves?

Exploring Imagination: Play Therapy vs. Teletherapy

Dealing with Family Tension During Self-Isolation

B.E. S.M.A.R.T. – Responding to Fear and Panic Surrounding COVID-19