With the implementation of remote learning due to COVID-19, many educational leaders are challenged with the task of running programs remotely while also taking into consideration the impact that this new normal has on children and families.  

The emotional health of children has always been a primary focus in our field as early care and education providers interact with children in a manner that demonstrates compassion and care for children’s “big emotions.” Building relationships with families is one of the many ways that we learn about the whole child so the child may have care that is consistent and tailored to who they are as individuals. 

During this time of physical distancing, families are being asked to put on a new hat and lead their children in learning, in ways they may have never done before. This requires them to also be knowledgeable of and sensitive to the emotional aspects of children’s development.  However, many parents are also challenged by their own big emotions as they encounter circumstances that are new to everyone worldwide. 

Here at the Institute, as a Leadership Coach, I have the pleasure of co-facilitating the Leadership Initiative’s Networking Meetings, which are a space for educational leaders to connect and share their wisdom and experiences. It was during one of these meetings where one leading Family Worker, M. Gina Pierre-Louis, of Morris L. Eisenstein Learning Center at United Community Centers, Inc. in Brooklyn N.Y. was inspired to create a new resource – a Journal Page Template  – for parents to utilize during these challenging times.

Through her creation, Pierre-Louis designed a space and a tool for parents to be reflective on a daily basis: to acknowledge their accomplishments, notice their feelings, and express their emotions through the power of writing. She also offers families the opportunity to connect with their child by providing a space for parent and child to draw how they are feeling.  

“In this moment, we are making history,” Pierre-Louis shared, speaking to the impact that journaling has to capture snapshots of moments. At the Institute, we celebrate Pierre-Louis and all of our educational leaders who, through these challenging times, continue to imagine, create, and inspire.

Invitation to Share: How have you been inspired to support parents during this time? How do you envision that the parents of your students would be able to use this resource? How could this resource be included in your work with parents? 

Serene Stevens is a Leadership Coach with the Institute’s Early Childhood Leadership Initiative. The Leadership Initiative is designed to support the professional development and success of current leaders and prospective leaders in the early childhood field.