| Today's essay by the poet Maggie Smith is so poignant. I, too, used to try to shield my sons from the scary things, from news and reality, and big, tough topics. But as they've grown and have become these thoughtful, interesting people, there's no one I'd rather be around when the big topics come up. The questions they ask about climate change, the conversations around what people can do to help, the comments about the pandemic and masking and immunizations. School shootings and racism. The passing of a beloved grandparent. They are living through some very Big Times. But how do we help them process scary situations, both fictional and real? Smith's essay evokes that journey (and has great advice on helping them through scary parts of movies). It's a piece that reminds me what a privilege it is to be a parent. Take a read, sit with it and enjoy. |
Parenting in a Pandemic These are challenging times for any parent to navigate. Let On Parenting help. Below you'll find a selection of expert advice and personal stories for all types of parents. To keep up with The Post's best advice for living through a lockdown, including recipes to make, shows to watch, the best socializing apps, resources for parents, guidance for managing anxiety and tips for canceled trips, bookmark Your Life at Home. And the latest on school can be found on The Post's Education page. For vaccinated parents with unvaccinated kids | Vaccinated adults may have more freedom. But for kids, 'the rules haven't changed.' For parents dealing with in-person school | How to help children adjust to masks, according to experts and parents | As kids move from quarantine to school, separation anxiety may follow. Here's how to help. For parents working from home | 6 strategies for parents struggling with work-from-home interruptions For parents looking ahead to post-pandemic life | The pandemic changed everything about family life. These are the parts parents want to keep. |