Meaningful Projects in an Anxious Time

Meaningful Projects in an Anxious Time

 

As the “Stay Home” directives of the President and Governor are extended it is important to help our children manage their fears. No one alive today can remember being in such a time as this.  Remind your child that staying home, as well as washing hands, covering sneezes, getting enough rest, exercise and proper nutrition will help all of us to slow the spread of the virus.  We all feel better if we know we are doing all we can to stay safe; children feel better with the example of adults in their lives practicing safe behaviors. 

One way to help children is for them to be involved in a purposeful project for someone else.  A suggestion is to make a card or write a note of encouragement to a friend or relative that could use the contact.  Another way is to write a note or draw a picture to some of our dedicated first responders, medical staff or local leaders.  I have provided several addresses for your information.  Of course, your child will have ideas and it is always motivating for a child to have the opportunity to make his/her own decision whenever possible.

Cards/Notes for Veterans and First Responders:

 Virginia Veterans Care Center; 4550 Shenandoah Ave. NW; Roanoke, VA 24017

Montvale Rescue Squad:  1485 Montvale St., Montvale, VA 24122

Montvale Volunteer Fire Company:  1271 Volunteer Rd., Montvale, VA 24122

 

A purposeful project will provide many benefits in addition to thanking or encouraging the recipient.  The child will develop a sense of gratitude for the life and gifts of others.  Also, the child will become aware of acts of citizenship, volunteering for us all, and contributions that make others safer, healthier, stronger, more informed and more connected in a community.  The child’s act of thinking of others will help the child to calm or soothe him/herself in an anxious time.