It is inevitable that students will grieve these losses. Proverbs in the Bible says, "hope deferred makes the heart sick." When we are looking forward to something that is lost, it hits hard.
What are some ways that we can help students reeling with bitter disappointment, frustration, and grief?
1. Listen
It seems too simple in a sense, right? But sometimes, when a kid is pouring out their frustrations, I find myself fighting to not cut them off and start counseling. Sometimes letting the student get out everything on their chest is far more helpful than any interruption! They may even get to the best conclusion on their own if you can be that listening ear. Don't interrupt. Let them talk while you actively listen.
2. Make sure they feel seen.
A note, a kind word, a small gift. Even a short letter of "I know this has been difficult, but you're handling it great" lets the student know you have thought of them. The pandemic has made a lot of kids feel invisible and forgotten. It's ok to let them know you're thinking of them.
3. Find creative ways to celebrate accomplishments.
If the pandemic has brought out anything in us, it's creativity! Drive-by receptions, ding dong dash drop-offs, social distancing visits, etc. We need people, it's in the fabric of our souls. Being physically apart doesn't mean we cut each other off completely.
Leave a note, make an Instagram post, host a drive-by reception, gather on Zoom, make the slideshow. Let them know that you are proud. They crave to know we are proud!
Even when times change, students don't. Their basic emotional needs remain the same. They need to feel noticed and they need to know how proud we are.
Let's not let this pandemic
steal any more than it has to. Tell your kids how proud you are. 💖
0 comments:
Post a Comment