Dear Friends,
As many of us are winding down the school year, it is important for us to remember that the children and their families may be feeling a little unsettled about what’s to come, including transitioning to the next age group/classroom, saying good-bye to teachers and friends, or going off to Kindergarten. These unknowns are stressful for everyone. As the saying goes, “It take a village to raise a child,” and we have all been a part of that village.
Many of our Early Childhood Centers weave mitzvot into our curricula. However, with the stresses of 21st-century family life, it is easy to lose sight of the long-term goals we hold for our children that transcend the challenges of the moment. Keeping the important goals in mind, like striving to “Grow Menschlich [mensch-like] Children” (or good people), require intentional action and resources.
There are many tools that are available to today’s families to keep the parenting “big picture” in mind. Below is a list of a few.
- URJ- Ask Big Questions
This series of conversation and resource guides are easy to pick up and follow on their own. This is a great resource to share with families.
- URJ- Parenting Recourses
This link will take you to the URJ’s “Parenting” page that holds many wonderful resources/articles that can be shared with families.
The article highlights strategies that early childhood educators can share with families in an effort to prevent challenging behavior during transitions both inside and outside the home.
- Mindfulness Apps- 15 Mindfulness and Relaxation Apps for Kids with Anxiety
A list of apps for both parents and children, and one that can be used together.
Let’s keep this conversation going by sharing resources on our listservs and Facebook pages.
L’Shalom,
Lori
