See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.
When challenges and feelings are BIG, there are little things you can do to help things feel easier for your child. Together, watch this video in which Abby and her mommy demonstrate their playful, loving goodbye routines — a “wing wave” and a “fairy farewell.”
Familiar, predictable routines help children know what to expect. Together, make up your own goodbye routine — perhaps some combination of fist bumps, high-fives, butterfly kisses, special handshakes, or rhyming words (such as “give a hug, ladybug” or “out the door, dinosaur”).
Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.
Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.
Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.
Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.
Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.
Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.
