'When Will This Be Over?' Sesame Workshop's Tips For Parenting In A Pandemic

Creativity

Encouraging creativity in children can be achieved by allowing them to explore and learn through everyday activities. Rosemarie Truglio emphasizes the importance of letting children become creative problem solvers by stepping back and allowing them to be self-sufficient. This approach not only fosters critical thinking but also helps children learn from their mistakes, which are essential for growth 1. She suggests that parents can integrate learning into daily routines, such as cooking, where children can engage in literacy, math, and science activities.

You could learn so much with these everyday moments, and I think that parents underestimate that, especially with really young children.

--- Rosemarie Truglio

Additionally, arts, crafts, and even exercise can be avenues for creativity, with activities like dance parties serving as both fun and educational experiences 1.

   

Independence

Fostering independence in children is crucial, especially when parents are juggling multiple roles. Rosemarie Truglio shares a personal experience of balancing her needs with her child's, highlighting the importance of self-care and communication in parenting 2. She stresses that children should not expect their parents' undivided attention at all times, as this is an opportunity for them to develop resiliency skills.

It's so important for children to build what we call resiliency skills. And part of resiliency skills is to have them cope with disappointment and frustration.

--- Rosemarie Truglio

By allowing children to manage their emotions and solve problems independently, parents can help them become more self-sufficient and adaptable 2.