PTHS Counseling Newsletter
May 2020
Inside this Issue:
1. AP Exam Updates
- AP Exam Walkthrough Video
- AP Exam Response Submission Demo - Available May 4
- AP Testing Guide
- Before Test Day
- Test Schedule
- Testing Security
2. Scholarships
- Seniors
- Fastweb: College Scholarship 2020 Edition
- Juniors
- Sophomores
3. Naviance
- Senior Survey
- Juniors - Letter of Recommendation Brag Sheet
4. Navigate 2020 - Virtual College Fair - May 4 - May 6
5. Financial Aid Information
- PHEAA Financial Aid 101YouTube
- Class of 2021 - PHEAA Financial Aid Webinars - May 7, May 14, or May 21
- Seniors- Financial Aid 2020
- How to Read Your Financial Aid Award Letter
- Financial Aid Awards Comparison Tool Calculator
- Quick Guide: Which College Loans are Best?
6. SAT & ACT Frequently Asked Questions
- Set up an Effective Work Space
- Tips for Staying Motivated in an Online World
- Online Etiquette
- Resiliency During COVID-19
8. Digital Footprint and Staying Safe in an Online World
9. Tip of the Month for Parents
- The Kids are Home - Now What?
- How Parents Support Students' Online Learning - Link
10. Counseling Office Contact
AP Exam Updates
As you have heard, College Board has moved to secure, online free-response AP exams for the 2019-2020 school year. Here are all updates from College Board for the exams:
Most exams will have one or two free-response questions, and each are timed separately. Students must write or type and submit their answers in the allotted time.
For most subjects, the exam will be 45 minutes long and include 5 minutes for uploading responses. Students will need to access the online testing system by clicking on their E-ticket, 30 minutes before the exam to begin answering security questions.
Students can take the exam on any device they have access to (computer, smartphone, or tablet). Students will have the option to either type and upload their responses or write responses by hand and submit a photo via their cell phone.
Students taking AP World Language and Culture exams will complete two spoken tasks consistent with free-response questions on the current AP Exam; written responses are not required.
Exams will be given from May 11th-May 22nd schedule listed below.
Each exam will be taken on the same day and at the same time worldwide.
Before Test Day
- Review your contact information in My AP Classroom to ensure your email address is accurate.
- Check your tech. Utilize the AP Responses Demo beginning May 4th. If you are unable to submit utilizing the demo then you will not be able to submit on test day. Troubleshooting is available on the College Board website or you can contact your AP teacher or counselor.
- Practice submitting your response with the demo available beginning May 4th.
- Gather what you need for each exam. Consult cb.org/apexamdaydocs to download, print, or gather addtitional materials for your specific exams.
- Receive your exam confirmation and E-ticket emails with your AP ID. If you do not receive emails, this information will also be available in My AP Classroom.
For additional updates please go to: https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students
AP Exam Security
Students may not consult with any other individuals during the testing period.
The exam content is designed specifically for at-home exams. Points will not be earned from content that can be found in textbooks or online.
On test day, students are required to verify their identity and confirm the work they submitted is their own.
College Board is using a range of digital security tools and techniques, including plagiarism detection software.
In addition, AP teachers will receive copies of the work students submit, enabling teachers to spot inconsistencies with students’ known work.
If you violate testing security – the following consequences will occur:
Students sharing or receiving exam content or responses or engaging in any plans or efforts to provide or gain an unfair advantage, will be blocked from testing or their scores will be canceled. This includes communications or assistance in person via social media, the internet, or any other means.
If it is determined the student gained or provided an unfair advantage on an AP Exam – College Board will notify colleges or other organizations which the student has already sent any College Board scores (including SAT scores) - or to which the student would send scores in the future.
For more testing violations please visit: https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students/taking-ap-exams/security
(Adapted from https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students/taking-ap-exams and https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students/taking-ap-exams/security)
Scholarships
Seniors!
We’re in the home stretch for scholarships and we still have more—apply, apply, apply!
To access our local scholarship database, please go to: Naviance/Naviance Student >Colleges tab >Scholarships and Money>Scholarship List
May
May 1: Mechanical Contractors Assoc. of Western PA Scholarship
May 1: Peters Township PTA Area Council Scholarship
May 1: Patti & Walter Blenko Scholarship Fund
May 4: Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees Washington County Scholarship
May 10: McMurray Lions Club Joe Marosz Sr. Memorial Scholarship
May 11: Peters Township Democratic Committee Scholarship
May 11: Peters Township Chamber of Commerce
May 15: Lexington Court Garden Club Scholarship
May 15: Peters Township Federation of Teachers Scholarship
May 18: PTSA Pride Scholarship
May 18: PTSA Service Scholarship
May 20: McMurray Art League College Scholarship
Update: All applications should now be e-mailed to Mrs. Aurin at ca0460@verizon.net. All artwork should be photographed and include what materials were used in the art process. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mrs. Aurin.
May 22: Student-View Scholarship Program
May 30: Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation Scholarship
May 31: The CIM Foundation Scholarship
May 31: Young Entrepreneur Scholarship
May 31: PB& J Scholarship
June
June 1: The Washington Financial Charitable Foundation Scholarship
June 1: II-IV Foundation Student Scholarship
June 30: Three Rivers Desk and Derrick Club
Reminders!
If a scholarship requires letter of recommendations and/or your transcript to be sent, please contact your counselor for assistance.
To access our local scholarship database, please go to: Naviance/Naviance Student >Colleges tab >Scholarships and Money>Scholarship List
Juniors!
The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a merit-based, four-year, full-tuition undergraduate scholarship for incomparable individuals who have the ability to make a positive impact in their profession. The Cameron Impact Scholar will make real, tangible contributions in their lifelong dedication to the greater good. Eligibility requirements include: a cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.7, must excel in extracurricular activities, exhibit strong leadership qualities, demonstrate active participation in community service, and be a US citizen. Deadlines:
Early applicant deadline is May 22, 2020
Finalist decisions made by end of June
Regular applicant deadline is September 11, 2020
Finalist decisions made by end of October
Finalist interviews will be conducted in October and November 2020. Only a total of 3,000 applications will be accepted, so make sure to apply early! The odds of receiving a finalist interview is also much higher in the early round of applicants. Apply online at: https://www.bryancameroneducationfoundation.org/cameron-impact-scholarship/submit-an-application
Sophomores - this one is for you!
Senior Survey - Naviance
Don't forget to complete the 2020 Senior Survey in Naviance (accessible on the main page of Naviance when you first log in) to finalize your responsibility as a Senior at PTHS. Your survey responses are essential to ensure that your final transcripts is forwarded to the college/university you plan to attend in August. Please complete the survey completely and accurately as the information collected will assist the counseling office.
Letter of Recommendation Brag Sheet
Attention Juniors!
Have you started to plan for, or work on your college applications, and realize that you need a letter of recommendation? Before you ask your teacher(s), counselor, or principal if they can write you a letter, complete the Letter of Recommendation Brag Sheet. Already asked? No worries. As soon as you complete it, your teacher, counselor, or principal will have access to the information. The Letter of Recommendation Brag Sheet can be found on the homepage of Naviance under What's New.
Let your counselor know if you have questions.
This event will host three days of live-stream expert presentations for students and families and a concurrent virtual college fair with fully interactive booths. Students can chat live with college admissions representatives.
This event is free-of-charge to attendees and is designed to help students and colleges connect safely during the COVID-19 crisis. The event will be live for three days, packed with informative sessions about the college decision process. During those three days, students can also browse interactive college fair booths, chatting live with admissions representatives.
After three days of live interactions, this event will remain posted at the event site until the COVID-19 crisis is over. Students need access to information and this site will remain a robust tool for exploring their options.
Financial Aid Information
Attention Class of 2021: PHEAA Financial Aid Webinars - May 7th, 14th, or 21st
Representatives from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will be providing an overview of how to apply for all types of financial aid, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is required to determine eligibility for most student aid programs such as the Pennsylvania State Grant, Federal Pell Grant, institutional offers, and federal student and parent loans. This will also be a great opportunity to have PHEAA representatives answer questions you may have.
Click Here to register for the May 7 webinar from 6-7 pm
Click Here to register for the May 14 webinar from 6-7 pm
FYI Seniors, Financial Aid 2020
Your Financial Aid award package for the 2020-2021 academic year is based on financial information from 2018. If your family financial situation has changed since that time, we encourage you to contact your financial aid office for a Special or Unusual Circumstances appeal. All schools are required to have an appeals process and should be able to guide you through the paperwork you’ll need to submit. Many schools have appeal information on their website, or you can always call the office or send an email for more personalized information and service. Considering that more students may need appeals now due to COVID-19, you’ll want to start this process as early as you can and follow up immediately with any requests from your Financial Aid office. Have more questions? Reach out to your school counselor.
(Adapted from: https://www.raise.me/blog/students/financial-wellness-during-covid-19/)
SAT and ACT Updates
SAT and ACT Frequently Asked Questions
There are many changes occurring in the world of college placement exams. Below are a list of frequently asked questions regarding the SAT and ACT exams. Have more questions? Email your counselor.
What happens if I signed up to take an exam that was cancelled?
Students who registered to take the March or May exam should have received a refund. Students who registered to take the June exam can utilize the funds towards a fall administration. Contact College Board if you would rather have a refund. See the calendar below for 2020-2021 school year dates.
The next ACT will be administered on June 13th. The registration deadline is May 8th. ACT also announced a July 13th exam date with a registration deadline of June 19th. See the calendar below for dates for the 2020-2021 school year.
How do I register for the next exam?
SAT: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/dates-deadlines
ACT: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/register-for-the-act.html
Will I receive results in time to complete my college applications?
Results generally are reported to students within two weeks of taking the exam with an additional two weeks to receive essay and writing results. Students can sign up to have scores sent to up to four colleges for free when registering to take the SAT or ACT. Otherwise, students will need to request and pay a fee for scores to be sent to post-secondary institutions. Early action and early decision deadlines are typically between mid-October through mid-November. To assure time for processing, students should request scores to be sent approximately a month prior to admissions deadlines.
Should I take the SAT or ACT with so many schools going test optional?
More doors remain opened to opportunities by taking the test. Some schools still require a SAT or ACT score as a piece of the college admissions application. While schools are announcing test optional, be mindful that this is for admissions. Some schools utilize SAT and/or ACT scores for merit scholarships. By achieving certain scores, one may qualify for scholarship. For example, Ohio State University offers the National Buckeye Scholarship for non-Ohio residents. Criteria includes an ACT composite score of 29 or higher or a score of 1330 or higher on the SAT. The award amount is $13,500 per year for four years. Students are automatically considered who meet the criteria and apply by November 1st. Visit individual school websites to determine merit scholarship criteria.
ACT Dates for 2020-2021
Tip of the Month: Coping in a Virtual World
Effective Study/Work Space
We understand that studying online takes dedication and discipline, but the advantages when you get your study method, space, and routine set up are totally worth it. Follow these tips to make sure you give yourself the best chance to succeed when studying online and make your study space the place where real dreams happen. We wish you all the best of luck. Here are a few tips to get your environment ready:
You want to be comfortable, but not so comfortable that you fall asleep (studying in bed is not always the best option). Choose a desk that comes up to between your waist and ribcage when you sit at it, and a simple chair that fits the height of the desk. You want to be able rest your feet on the floor, and not have to hunch your shoulders over your laptop when working.
A study space that is not lit properly may make you feel sleepy and put strain on your eyes. Make sure your screen contrast is comfortable to look at, use a small desk lamp to light your immediate study area, and a larger lamp or overhead light to light the rest of the room. Natural light is fine, but make sure the temptation to look out of the window doesn’t distract you from your studies.
Make sure you have all the study materials you need at hand, and ONLY the study materials you need. Keep traditional school supplies (pens, paper, books) in a designated area on your desk or in a desk drawer. Also, make sure your laptop or tablet charger is nearby (you don’t want to lose work because you were concentrating too hard to notice a dying battery).
A tidy and efficient desktop is an effective desktop, whether it’s your real desk or on your computer. Make sure every item you need to study has it’s own place and everything is labeled clearly, especially computer files and printed materials. The learning platform always keeps you up to date, but a nice wall calendar can also help you know at a glance what you need to do next.
Time management is often one of the implicit skills online students say they improve in the most while doing an online degree. When used as a tool for motivation, a clock can provide a very simple way to help you stay focused and get the job done.
Put your phone away. In this day and age, it might seem like an unrealistic request, but detaching from your smartphone while you study (unless you are studying on your phone) will allow you to really get down to some serious work. If you can’t bring yourself to turn it off, try putting it in airplane mode. Also, leave social media to the side during your designated study time, and then look forward to sharing your success on facebook and twitter when that important assignment has finally been submitted to your tutor.
You may be the kind of person who enjoys a little background noise when studying. However, the most important thing to do is make sure the noise is YOUR noise i.e. music that you choose or a radio station you enjoy. Noise from your neighbor, traffic outside or television can be a distraction, so try to minimize this as much as you can.
Just study. Make sure that the study space you have created is only used for studying. The space physically represents your dedication and focus on achieving your grades. If it’s not possible to have a dedicated space, make sure you can transform an appropriate area to and from your dedicated study space as seamlessly and tidily as possible.
Don’t be afraid to hang inspiring pictures and decorate your study space to please your senses and reflect your ambition to succeed.
Remember, this is YOUR study space, so you can make it exactly how you feel it will suit your study habits best. Experiment a little with exactly how you design your study space. Personalizing your study space reinforces focus and can help you look forward to studying.
(Adapted from https://www.edology.com/blog/study-and-careers-advice/effective-study-space/)
Staying Motivated in an Online World
Get Dressed –
While staying your pajamas all day sounds ideal, you are losing a key component to your old daily routine. A simple task such as getting dressed in the morning has the ability to shift your mindset. Having on normal clothes you would go to school in can help to set the tone and create a more productive atmosphere from the get-go.
Log-in Daily -
Logging in is the first step to success. You can’t look for course updates, contribute to class discussions, or complete assignments if you don’t simply log in to your online platform. Get in the habit of doing so daily, even if it is just for a few minutes.
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate -
While we are all navigating and transitioning to this new online platform, your teachers have provided valuable resources to communicate with them and have provided multiple ways to do this. They have daily office hours where they are available to you. If you miss their office hours – email them! That is why they are provided with emails. Ask them for help when you need it. We are here to help you succeed! Whether in school or in a virtual world, we are here for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or reach out.
Social Distance Style Study Sessions -
Although we were instructed to practice Social Distancing, it doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to socializing with our biggest support networks and our social lives. Schedule virtual get-togethers with your friends and have them as often as you can! These can provide something positive to look forward to. These do not just have to be limited to study sessions! Get together with your friends for a watch party of your favorite TV show, have a virtual game night or trivia night, or even just to celebrate getting through another week!
Set Small Daily Goals -
Remember that these are not normal times and your productivity is likely not functioning at its peak right now. That is OKAY! Set small daily goals that can help you make your day as productive as possible. First, make sure they are realistic and achievable within a timely manner. Create a list of your goals and cross them off as you achieve them! For example, if your teachers are posting all the materials and assignments on Monday – take some time to sit down and get yourself organized for the week. Create a list for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc. Look at each assignment due date and plan them out based on those due dates. Do you have an English assignment due on Friday? Add it to your to-do list on Wednesday to look over and get it completed! Making a short list each day can make large overwhelming amounts of work/assignments seem manageable.
Be Okay with NOT Being Highly Productive Everyday
There might be days where Netflix wins over your motivation to complete your work, and that is to be expected! Life is not normal right now for anyone. You will have good days and then you will have bad days where your motivation is nowhere to be found. When work seems impossible, do your best to prioritize the most crucial and important tasks to get accomplished that day – what deadline is tomorrow, what emails do you need to respond to? Get those tasks completed and out of the way. Get through your high priority tasks then give yourself the rest of the day off with the intent to work longer the next day.
We are all learning to adjust best and work from home while being isolated from our support networks. Staying motivated can be tricky but making realistic schedules, to-do lists, and taking time to care for yourself can help you make it a bit easier to stay focused and motivated during the day! Stay motivated, focused, and positive to move away from the stressful changes towards a more hopeful future! This too shall pass – YOU GOT THIS!
Block off time for schoolwork and relaxation -
Working from home can make it much harder to get through your daily tasks when the temptation of Netflix is quite literally right in front of you 24/7. Am I right? For some though, the temptation of overworking can shine through now that we are no longer dependent on the designated workspace like school or the office to restrict our work hours. Scheduling when you will work and when you will relax can help you manage a healthy work-life balance throughout your day.
- Scheduling Work Hours: Come up with a reasonable study schedule and stick to it! At the beginning of each week, look at your commitments and determine your obligations for school, friends/family, work, etc. Block off time each day to meet each obligation and schedule this time as appointments. Do not miss an appointment!! Think of it like a doctor’s office, if you do not cancel an appointment within 24 hours and you do not show up, you will be charged a $50 no-show fee. An example schedule could look like this:
Online Etiquette
Communication occurs solely via the written word in an online course. Body language, tone of voice, and keys from the traditional classroom are all absent. Take these things into consideration when contributing messages to a discussion and reading them. Consider these things for ALL virtual platforms (I.e. Instagram, Tik Tok, Google Classroom, etc.).
Avoid inappropriate material – period. Nothing is truly private online.
Think before you post – think carefully about the content of your message before contributing it. Once it is sent or posted online, there is no taking it back. If you are not sure, have someone else look at it for their opinion before sending.
Consider others’ privacy – other’s might share their opinions on a discussion board that is not shared with others. This is their news to tell, NOT YOURS. Keep in mind that all private mail or messages is considered copyrighted by the original author. Be mindful of what you are sharing with others!
Be aware of strong language, tone, all caps, and exclamation points – written text can be misread or misunderstood. It is very important to be mindful of the words you are choosing to get your meaning across. For example, sarcasm is very hard to detect when you read the words rather than hearing them spoken. All caps can be considered screaming or shouting. Before you send it, read everything out loud.
Spelling and grammar matter – keep your language professional. While texting this can be gr8 4 ur friends. In a professional setting, it is not appropriate. Reflect proper writing style, spelling, and grammar. Save your written shortcuts and language for Snapchat and Tik Tok.
Stick to the point –contributions should stick to the subject and be as concise as possible. Your points might be missed if hidden in a flood of text.
Respect others and their opinions – Be respectful of your peers’ thoughts, feelings, and opinions even though they might differ from your own. Remember that your peers and teachers are real people to who are affected by words you say and write, just like you are. If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, do not say it online.
Frivolous email – don't forward jokes, chain letters, or unimportant emails to students without their permission. Not only does it fill up their inboxes but might offend people who do not share the same sense of humor.
Be forgiving – not everyone will know these rules before posting. Be understanding of those who struggle with written communication.
(Adapted from: https://achievevirtual.org/7-rules-for-online-etiquette/ and https://www.centenaryuniversity.edu/academics/academic-resources-advising/online-coursework-tips/online-etiquette/)
Resiliency during COVID-19
Resiliency is a life skill continuously built by individuals when they experience adverse situations to help reduce and manage stress/anxiety. Resiliency is the ability to bounce back or adapt in a positive way in the face of adverse situations and challenges. Currently, we are living through a global crisis that has affected our lives as we know it. Not only are we affected socially, this is impacting individuals and families financially – leaving us feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what the future holds. What can we do to continue to practice resiliency and stay positive?
Be open – accept the challenging experiences, including our thoughts and feelings instead of trying to suppress them. See these thoughts and feelings for what they are (a thought is simply just a thought). Talk about your thoughts and feelings with someone and why it makes you feel that way. If you are worried about what the future holds talk about it! Someone else might be thinking the same things as you are.
Be aware – Be fully present in the moment with all of your senses. It is very easy to be caught up in your thoughts and feelings, especially in the past and the future. Practice your breathing and ground yourself. Focus on five things you can things you can touch, four things you can hear, three things you can see, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. Being aware also means staying current in what is going on in the world and the appropriate precautions to take. For example, wash your hands as often as you can, wear a mask if you go into a business or the public, clean down commonly touched surfaces like the TV Remotes and door handles. Also learn about the symptoms of COVID-19 and how you can protect yourself and others. Staying aware is the best way to stay protected!
Stay engaged and active - Many gyms have gone to virtual platforms for individuals to stay active at home in their own living rooms. Even if it is just 30 minutes every few days, get active. Also, get outside and enjoy the warmer weather – enjoy the sunshine when we have it. Staying within the same four walls of your house every day can be difficult. If you have a porch, go out and breathe in the fresh air. If you don’t, sit in your driveway for a few minutes. Take a walk around the neighborhood or go to the trail.
Practice gratitude - It is very easy to get caught up into our negative thoughts and feelings about our current situation. One very important thing to do every day is to remember all that you are grateful for. It can be something as simple as, I am grateful for having my family with me. Remember the positive and the good!
Be kind - You are not the only individual who is feeling stressed, overwhelmed and uncertain during this time. A simple smile, thank you, or hope you are well can go a long way! Especially to those on the front lines. The grocery store might not have what you need, it is not the workers fault. They are there working to ensure you are able to meet the physical needs for you and your family.
(Adapted from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hope-resilience/202003/building-resilience-in-the-era-covid-19 and https://www.fastcompany.com/90491308/9-science-backed-ways-to-boost-resilience-during-the-covid-19-crisis).
Digital Footprint and Staying Safe in an Online World
Our smartphones, laptops, and other devices that allow us to go online play a crucial role in our daily lives. Especially now in this new virtual world that we live in. These devices are how most of us keep in touch with friends and family, take pictures, do our homework, do research, find out the latest news, and shop. But what does our online presence say - what is our digital footprint?
A digital footprint, in short, is anything that you post or is posted about you online. That includes social media, your own website, articles about you or written by you. It spans all time and doesn’t just include what’s found at the top of the page—it can be information that is both easy and hard to find. This can include things that you actively post but something that also encompasses more passive online activities such as online searches or opening of specific emails. All things online can be tracked and linked to those who use it. Why is this important? Anything you place online, whether text or images, has the potential to be available online forever. All too often employers and colleges are looking at applicants through their digital footprint to assure that students and potential applicants are representing themselves well through their online platforms. Always remember to T.H.I.N.K. before you post: be True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind in all your posts.
Smartphones and online portals offer millions of sites to visit, apps to download and things to do that take up many hours of our day. This gives us access, a way to stay connected to current events, and connect with people we know and even those we do not. Having all of these options online make protecting our information even more important. Tips for staying safe online:
Never post personal information online. This includes, but not limited to, cell phone numbers, home phone numbers, a picture of your driver's license, your address, or your current location.
When creating a screen name do not include personal information. This includes your last name or date of birth.
Censor your photos – they can often provide clues to personal information. For example, posting a picture of yourself in your varsity jacket can show a stranger the school you attend and the activities that interest you.
Never send photos to people you meet online.
Do not meet in person with someone you “met” on the Internet. If someone asks to meet you, tell a trusted adult right away.
Don’t share your password with anyone. This includes your closest friends – you do not want someone to impersonate you on your own account.
Never download or install anything onto your computer or cell phone without first checking with your parents.
Use privacy settings. They are there for a reason.
It’s not always strangers that you need to be cautious of – always exercise your best judgment. When in doubt, turn to a trusted adult.
Be mindful of what you post/say – you never know where what you say about something or someone will go. Screen Recording and Screenshots are real, everyone has the capability of this function. You never know where what you say, or post will go!
Listen to a trusted adult! If they caution you against something that you posted, listen to them. They have lived through various experiences and know the potential dangers that lie in the virtual world.
Be mindful of the things you post. You never know who will see it! Leave a positive digital footprint for others to see and one you can be proud of.
Tip of the Month for Parents
The Kids are Home - Now What?
Navigating this new landscape of uncertainties has particular challenges for parents. Whether you’re on the front lines of the pandemic while your children are home, you’re suddenly out of work with kids to care for, or you’re able to telecommute with your kids underfoot, many of us are overwhelmed. We’re juggling responsibilities with limited or no childcare, taking on home-schooling duties we never anticipated, and trying to follow disease-prevention measures we’re not sure we’re equipped to handle. All of this can add up to a whole lot of anxiety and stress!
Combat loneliness: Find ways to see family members and friends even if you can’t actually see them in real life. There are many different ways to achieve this, but Skype, Facetime, Google Hangouts & Viber are just a few ways that friends & family can meet up online. Social connection is as equally important for children as adults, so make sure there is enough time devoted each day to friends and family.
Maintain a routine: Routines add order to a world that feels chaotic. Not only do they make us more productive, but the structure can also help restore a sense of normalcy and comfort. Parents can benefit just as much from a regular schedule. Plus, modeling this behavior for your children will show them how to cope with life on life’s terms and give them confidence that they can handle uncertain situations. Remember to keep your expectations in check – we are all trying to figure our way through this and having unrealistically high expectations for yourself or your child will only result in failure and hurt feelings.
Talk to children about COVID-19: Make yourself available to talk and if your child asks questions or exhibits signs of confusion or anxiety, give them your undivided attention. If you are unable at that moment, give them a specific time that you will be available to talk later on. Keep the information age-appropriate and factual. Explore with them the list of things they can do to help stop the spread of the virus. Don’t try to hide information; especially from older children who are apt to find information on their own without proper guidance on how to get the truth from the noise.
Check in on your own stress levels: Think of ways you have reduced your stress in the past: reaching out to friends, religion, therapy, or turning off the news might all be ways that you can achieve this. Try some breathing exercises or engage in an activity that distracts you and lowers your anxiety levels. Children of all ages are like sponges and if you are modeling the use of helpful coping mechanisms, it becomes a great life lesson for them on how to cope with stress in this trying time and beyond.
Adapted from: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-03-20/coronavirus-talk-to-kids-stay-home-order
Counseling Office Information
Class of 2020-2023: A-Di
Class of 2024 and beyond: A-C
Ms. Riggle: rigglec@pt-sd.org
Class of 2020-2023: Dj-Kl
Class of 2024 and beyond: D-Hh
Ms. Simmons: simmonsa@pt-sd.org
Class of 2020-2023: Km-M
Class of 2024 and beyond: Hi-Mh
Mrs. Prinsen: prinsenh@pt-sd.org
Class of 2020-2023: N-Sk
Class of 2024 and beyond: Mi-Se
Mr. Sudol: sudolj@pt-sd.org
Class of 2020-2023: Sl-Z
Class of 2024 and beyond: Sf-Z
Mrs. Leyna Steffen: steffenl@pt-sd.org
Dean of College and Career Readiness