Wellness Resource from BUSD
Message from Burbank Unified School District:
Dear Burbank Unified Students, Families and Employees:
As you know, The Burbank Unified School District has made the decision to close its campuses until at least March 27, 2020. We hope that by practicing “social distancing,” we will do our part in limiting the spread of the Coronavirus; however, we also recognize the impact that “social distancing” can have on various community members’ emotional well being. It is common to feel anxious and overwhelmed when there are so many factors that remain unknown. We tend to try to avoid topics that trigger anxiety and stress, but not talking about it may actually increase these feelings for you and your child.
How to Talk to Your Child About Coronavirus
- Allow and acknowledge your child’s feelings (and your own)
- Take cues from your child and provide developmentally appropriate explanations
- Focus on what you are doing to keep your child safe (e.g., not gathering in groups and practicing good hygiene)
- It is okay to say that you “do not know” when asked certain questions
- Keep the conversation going
For more information on how to talk to your child about the Coronavirus, please see the following resources:
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus – Child Mind Institute
Exploring the Coronavirus -- NPR Comic
Other Strategies to Support You and Your Child During School Closure
- Burbank Family Service Agency services currently remain available to students and their parents with a phone call to the Student CARE Center phone line 818-333-6239 or the agency phone line 818-845-7671.
- It is normal to experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings, and reactions during this time. You or your child may experience the following:
- Stress and worry
- Fear and anxiety
- Frustration and irritability
- Helplessness
- Difficulty sleeping and/or concentrating
- Isolating or withdrawing from others
- Physical symptoms
- (e.g. increased heart rate, sweating, low energy, stomachaches, headaches, etc.)
It can be helpful to talk with others, journal, engage in creative activities (e.g. art, music, etc.), and/or speak to a professional.
- Practice relaxation strategies:
- Headspace
- Calm
- UCLA Mindfulness Exercises
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation
- Deep breathing
- It is important to maintain as much structure and routine as possible, which can increase feelings of control and/or alleviate feelings of anxiety and/or stress. Therefore, try to keep your family’s schedule consistent when it comes to bedtimes, morning routines (including getting dressed for the day), meals, and exercise.
- It is important for you and your child to stay connected to each other, friends, peers, family, and colleagues. Receiving support from loved ones can have a powerful impact on your stress and sense of stability and comfort.
- Make time for regular, personal check-ins with friends and family via text, email, FaceTime, etc.
- All of the people at school that you or your child would regularly reach out to for academic and emotional support are available via email and Zoom.
- It is important to try to limit media consumption. While it is important to stay informed, it is essential to set healthy limits if you find yourself constantly reading, watching, or listening to media coverage. If you can, try to take breaks to focus on positive things in your life, especially ones that you have control over, or unplug. If you need news updates, check out a government resource for the best, most accurate information.
For additional information, feel free to refer to the following resources:
How Working Parents Can Prepare for Coronavirus Closures
Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with Coronavirus
Take care,
Matt Hill, Ed.D.
Superintendent