SkimmU·3 min read

SkimmU Special Edition Parenting: Parenting Today

October 19, 2022

In this special edition of SkimmU, we took a look at parenting 2+ years into the pandemic with Board Certified Psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph, Board Certified Pediatrician Dr. Natasha Burgert, and Happy Family Organics’ Anne Laraway. Because as a parent, you don’t need to (and shouldn’t) have the answers to everything. So we tackle everything from child development to your biggest Qs. Here are a few takeaways from our chat.

What are some ways I can assess how my child is feeling two years into the pandemic?

Dr. Natasha Burgert: A lot of kids don’t have the language to be able to articulate that they’re feeling anxious or depressed. They have a different language and a different ability to be able to understand what’s going on in their brain than adults. So I encourage families to first start talking with language to help describe those feelings — to help define what we’re really talking about. That can be in short conversations during a TV show or a car ride, or it could be as formal as reading an age-specific book to help a child better articulate what they’re actually feeling.

How can I approach talking to my kids about the changes they’ve gone through and how they’re feeling?

Anne Laraway: I have three kids that are different ages. Understanding how your child can communicate at different ages is really important. My older child has more trouble expressing his emotions. So we have a strip of paper that has different visuals of somebody that’s happy, somebody that’s sad, somebody that’s angry. We use that with him because he's more receptive to connect with a picture. Whereas my middle one has an easier time expressing himself using words. Figuring out what works for each individual child and taking into consideration their age is important.

Why should I prioritize my own mental health while supporting my child?

Dr. Judith Joseph: Children can mirror us from the moment they come out of the womb. When they see us anxious, they’re anxious. And they need to feel safe and secure. A part of that is the routine. When you are busy at home and it’s hard to separate your work life from your home life, sometimes it’s just the basics. You want to make sure the place looks clean and clutter-free because you’re modeling for your children that it’s important for them to have a surrounding that’s peaceful.

Psst...For the full conversation (think: more parenting tips and advice), get out a notebook and hit the play button above.

The views and opinions expressed are based on the knowledge and experience of the panelists and do not represent the view of theSkimm or its Sponsors. This webinar is for educational purposes only and viewers should speak to a professional regarding your specific situation. 

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