This is the first in a series of intentional communications with Colonial students and families to encourage all of you to allow yourself space and the time to process your personal experience of living through a pandemic and access support if necessary.  The “E” in The Power of WE is made up of Students, Staff, Family, and Community.  

Recognize and Validate Grief 

Everyone around us is experiencing some form of loss right now. The many difficult emotions you may be experiencing – sadness, disappointment, anger, guilt, frustration, or loneliness – are normal responses to abnormal conditions. We are grieving; and with grief, it is important to take a compassionate approach to ourselves and those around us. 

How can I practice self-compassion? 

• Recognize and name the emotions you are experiencing. Check-in with yourself, just like you would for a friend. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings, whatever they may be. 

• Guilt, especially survivor’s guilt, is common during a widespread crisis, but it is not productive. 

Try to let it go. 

• Practice self-kindness.
Treat yourself the way you would treat a friend! Kindness and compassion toward yourself is never selfish; in fact, it will help you maintain strength and resilience, ultimately enabling you to be a more effective support for others. 

• Recognize the common humanity around you.
We are all in this together. Many people around the world are having the same kinds of experiences, thoughts, and feelings as you.

Access the link below to view some resources that may help you experience self-compassion.
 https://www.mindful.org/be-kind-to-yourself-right-now/

Understand what is normal behavior for children and teens right now. With schools suddenly closed, many students feel cut off from social networks and are experiencing
confusion, stress, worry, and disappointment. The following reactions are common, but if they continue for two weeks or more, or are very significant changes from their normal behavior, it may indicate that your child or teen could use your help to manage what they are feeling.

Grades Pre K – 2
Excessive energy / Hyperactivity
Frequent crying / Tearfulness
Separation anxiety
Increased whining
Developmental regression (for example, toileting accidents)

Grades 3 – 6
Excessive energy / Hyperactivity
Excessive worry /
Repeated questions
Frequent crying / Tearfulness
Separation anxiety
Increased whining
Boredom 

Grades 7 – 12
Excessive worry /
Repeated questions
Poor concentration
Irritability / Anger
Difficulty sleeping
Fatigue
Boredom 

Your child’s School Counselor and School Nurse are available to address your questions and support your child.  Open the link below to view their contact information.
• Colonial School Counselor and School Nurse Contact Info