Friends, since schools are closed and many adults are not leaving home for work I’m anticipating a few challenges for families and also for adults that live alone…boredom and loneliness. The temptation for parents is to allow kids to zone out in front of video games for the next few weeks. I really encourage you not to do that. It will increase behavior problems and irritability. Decide now how much screen time your kids will be allowed and stick to it. Otherwise you’ll be in a constant state of arguing about it and negotiating. Maybe this is the time to teach your kids to cook, or read a book together as a family, or  (until the medical community tells us differently) take everyone and get outside. Play in your yard, dig in the dirt, throw a ball with your dog.
Being outdoors is good for your mental health…The combination of sunshine and exercise can actually raise your seratonin level and help with depression and anxiety. One can only “Netflix and chill” for so long without it affecting your mood!