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Emotional Toolboxes

Little boy concentrating while playing with kid toolbox, turning a wrench.

Since mid-March 2020, almost every facet of life has been altered as a result of COVID-19. For families with young children, this time has been even more challenging due to the limited childcare or educational opportunities for kids and reduced paychecks (or lost employment) for parents.

If your child is having trouble coping during this crisis, one tool that can help them remain calm is to create an “emotional toolbox.” This toolbox is a literal box or basket with items that bring joy to the child and can be filled with items from the parent and child. Toolboxes can have arts and crafts, books, puzzles, toys, movies, and other age-appropriate items.

Although this tool is targeted at kids, adults can benefit from them as well. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the current state of the world and its effect on your emotional or financial well-being, having a place to turn to that can bring up positive vibes reminds us that this pandemic is temporary. Do not neglect your or your child’s mental health during moments of extreme stress. Whenever you or your child needs a moment to “reset,” an emotional toolbox is there to temporarily relieve frustration.

What are some things that would be in your or your child’s emotional toolbox?

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