Hey Falcons!! :) Did you know that optimism, a feeling or belief that good things will happen (so, looking on the bright side), is learned? People aren't born thinking negatively or positively! That is good news because it means that we can learn to be more positive!

Why is optimism important? 
Having an optimistic attitude helps people to be happier, more successful, and healthier. Optimism makes people more resistant to stress. My resiliency groups talk about optimism because thinking positively helps us to bounce back from tough things in life!!

How can we increase our optimism?
-Notice and appreciate good things in your life/day (watch for more info about gratitude tomorrow! :)  )
-Pay attention to your thoughts. When you find yourself thinking something negative, say DELETE and turn the negative thought into something positive.
-List positives about yourself. What are qualities about yourself that you love most?
-Praise yourself for positive effort! 

Parents, here are a couple articles about helping kids to be more optimistic:
https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/advice/6-tips-to-raise-an-optimist/
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/optimism.html

Hopefully your kids aren't feeling TOO much of the stress, but chances are they are feeling at least a little uncertain right now! Below are some resources you can use to educate and reassure your kiddos and teach them some coping strategies to deal with any big feelings they may be experiencing.

Here is a video that explains to kids what the Coronavirus is and teaches some coping strategies to deal with the tough feelings they may have because of the virus: https://www.facebook.com/counselorkeri/videos/520411045338898/

Here is an article: "What Parents Can Do to Manage Coronavirus Stress in Kids" in case they are feeling anxious!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/passive-aggressive-diaries/202003/what-parents-can-do-manage-coronavirus-stress-in-kids?eml

This website is providing many calming resources including music, nature sounds, guided relaxation scripts, bedtime stories, and more! They currently have a whole page of their resources available for free. https://www.calm.com/blog/take-a-deep-breath?utm_source=lifecycle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=difficult_times_nonsubs_031720

Hi families! I have big plans for this page to keep everyone up-to-date while we are learning in separate spaces. Here are a couple community resources for food and internet access.
Keep checking here for updates, but also feel free to email me with any questions or concerns you might have. I'm happy to continue supporting your family even during this time apart!!