In Search Of: Mary Poppins
I’m not a parent. I don’t even have a pet right now (soon though…puppy fever!). I am in no position to tell anyone how to parent their children, and I know better than to sing a happy tune about how easy parenting is. I do cringe when I hear someone say that this should be a wonderful time for parents - “How wonderful to have so much time to spend with your children!”. oof. From what I hear from family, friends, and clients who do have children it’s more like, “WHAT AM I GOING TO DO WITH THEM NOW?!”. It’s okay to not feel happy/excited/okay by the fact that you are home with your children 24/7. Children are work! Yes, yes, they’re wonderful - but right now children are work, home is work, and work is work. it’s all too much. i mean, I’m doing the best I can to take care of myself right now, I can’t imagine being responsible for another human being during all of this.
If only Mary Poppins truly existed…
And now that school in Massachusetts is out for the year, there may be a new surge of stress running through your veins. THAT IS OKAY! Please remember that anything and everything that you’re thinking and feeling right now is valid. I’m not trying to give you yet another thing to do, but I do want to offer some options incase you’re looking for more ideas or are in need of some support from other parents who get exactly how you feel:
The Art Therapy Institute is offering sessions to inspire, create and HAVE FUN! Easily accessible art materials will be used to explore a new theme each week. Two sessions will be offered each Thursday April 16th- May 21st. Sign-up will close at 9am the day of the class.
From virtual play dates for little ones, to a Coping and Mindfulness Group for adolescents, to groups for parents (coping skills practice and support groups), William James College really seems to have something for everybody! Some groups do require registration, so make sure to check all the details.
Part art project, part reflection, this Covid-19 Time Capsule is a great way to put this time in perspective.
Lastly, a FREE webinar for parents looking for guidance during Coronavirus: "This webinar is intended for parents and focuses on coparenting: How parents can work together—whether they are living in the same household or apart—to keep their children safe and promote their healthy development in a time of great uncertainty.".
Sending good vibes and any extra patience I have to all you parents out there! I hope there’s something helpful in this post for each and every one of you (but if not, please don’t blame the non-parent. I tried!).