Clarksville Academy believes in providing support students need in and out of the classroom. According to The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), “Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. The closing of school may trigger some serious emotions in your home, and the implementation of some of these strategies may help your child cope while out of school.
It is important to know how to help your child. Let them know it is okay to be nervous, and you are there to support them. Children look to adults for guidance on how to react to stressful events. Please reassure your child health and school officials are working diligently to ensure that people stay healthy. However, children need factual, age appropriate information about the potential risks and appropriate preventive measures.
Be mindful of what your child is being exposed to on social media, news, and personal conversations. Talking with your child about their fears and giving them a sense of some control can help reduce anxiety. Parents can support their children by being available, remaining calm, and reassuring them. We encourage your child to turn off the television, play a family game, journal, read a book, and monitor technology. Twenty-four hour news coverage feeds anxiety and fear in children.
It is comforting to many children to remain in a routine. Have a family schedule where you carve out time during the day for schoolwork, chores, physical activity, and encourage them to be consistent with the schedule. If you feel you need additional support, please reach out to the counseling office at counseling@clarksvilleacademy.com.