We are truly disappointed that school will not be back in session this month. Because of this, Empathy and Hope are two keywords that I hope you will join me in focusing on this week. My wording in today's video (my camera man is 7:)) such as, "I look forward to" or "I hope to" are examples of hopeful language. This hopeful language might be a great way to help your child with any disappointments they are experiencing. The circle of control is helpful too but be gentle presenting it because our circle of control is shrinking during these uncontrollable times.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/deviced/202003/tips-parenting-well-in-the-early-days-covid-19

When you feel disappointed you can ask yourself if what happened was in your circle of control or not. Will it maybe be in your circle of control at a later time? Can't go visit grandma? Missing baseball? You can do all of these things again one day. You might like this mom's idea for honoring her family's disappointments by turning them into "wishes" they write down and place in a wish jar for later:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/bucket-list-jar-katie-eborall-coronavirus_l_5e8624d9c5b6d302366c990c

Empathy is the key to helping your child handle disappointment. Combine this skill with a discussion of what is/isn't in your circle of control and then offer the healing touch of hope. Here are some great tips for this skill:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P56f8v-DRTY