Preparing for a Pandemic Summer
If anything, this pandemic has reinforced the unpredictability of life and the lack of control that we have over many things in our lives. As the school year comes to a close, I feel a sense of success that I made it through the semester on Zoom, yet an uneasy feeling is starting to grow about what comes next. Questions start to swirl around in my head about summer: What is summer going to look like this year?
The loss of a daily school routine for my family is daunting. What are my kids going to do in the absence of summer camp and vacations? How will we structure our time together without a schedule of Zoom meetings and class assignments?
Remembering some of the techniques I’ve learned about quelling my own anxious thoughts, I take a deep breath, pause, and think about the opportunities that summer could present for my family. I think about our intentions for this summer. I am reminded that some of the tools we used to get through quarantine are the same tools we can use this summer to maintain our wellbeing and stay connected in novel ways.
Remembering some of the techniques I’ve learned about quelling my own anxious thoughts, I take a deep breath, pause, and think about the opportunities that summer could present for my family. I think about our intentions for this summer. I am reminded that some of the tools we used to get through quarantine are the same tools we can use this summer to maintain our wellbeing and stay connected in novel ways.
- Develop a new family routine, one that emphasizes joy and fun.
- Create a practice of gratitude this summer and get the whole family involved. Research shows that an attitude of gratitude can improve one’s mood.
- Spend more time outside and breathe in the fresh air, even it's only your backyard, courtyard, or balcony.
- Learn a new hobby or skill together. Check out the videos on Youtube or search through social media to find ideas on something you can do as a family. Our Live & Learn series is a great place to start! These short videos are led by members of our school community, including students!
As we figure out our new normal this summer, it will be paramount to keep grace and patience at the forefront of our interactions. I encourage you to continue to keep in touch with each other this summer and take advantage of the slower pace to spend precious time with your children. If you have novel ideas on making summer special or fun ways to connect with others in the Graland community, post them on our Community Discussion Board for others to see. And don't forget the lessons of self-care; here are some tips from the Mayo Clinic.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
