These are weird and stressful times for all of us and, unfortunately, young children are no exception.
Whether theyâve picked up on the anxieties of those around them or are struggling with online school, itâs likely that children are feeling much the same as the rest of us. One way we can deal with our anxieties and focus ourselves is through mindfulness, which can be described as an awareness of the present moment and nonjudgmental acceptance of our emotions. Meditation is how we practice and improve our mindfulness.
Though it has been practiced for thousands of years â modern mindfulness practices have roots in Buddhist teachings â most people find the practice is compatible with their existing faith systems and modern lifestyles. Â
Award-winning author Kate DiCamillo speaks about the power of telling stories. During this pandemic year, and dark winter, she says “stories are light in a dark world.”
The Newbery Award-winning Minnesota writer told a University of Minnesota audience in a virtual event that she writes alone, “but the story goes out into the world … and it has my heart in it. … There’s comfort in telling a story.”
When we read aloud, DiCamillo says, we are connecting to each other, and we “see each other as fully human.”
“Reading aloud binds us together in unexpected ways, she adds. This pandemic year is a “good time to give reading a chance.”
44 entertaining gifts your 3-year-old won’t want to put down TODAY 3/22/2021 Lisa Tolin
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The best gifts for 3-year-olds will include plenty of opportunities to explore as toddlers grow and develop into more imaginative play.
Finally out of the terrible twos, many are entering school for the first time and interacting with friends. They’re becoming increasingly verbal and able to answer questions and follow directions. (Or not: There’s a reason people call them “threenagers.”)