Disclaimer: We at Safe Harbor International Ministries are aware of the increase in domestic violence rates since the pandemic began. This is another very prominent struggle facing some families during COVID-19. Since this issue is so important to our organization, we are dedicating a whole blog post to it exclusively. This article will be published during the first week of October.

Introduction

One thing about the COVID-19 pandemic that has both pros and cons to it is the increase in family time. With work and school being online for many people, and public places staying closed, families have been spending more time together at home. Having no choice but to be together has given some families more opportunities to bond, bringing them closer.

But, being essentially locked in a house with the same person or group of people presents some challenges for both parents and children. Parents may find themselves arguing more. Children might be acting out because they aren’t sure how to deal with the emotions that come with all of this change. Parents might have trouble getting work done with increased distractions while their children are home. They also have the added responsibility of teaching children from home. Single parents are experiencing even more pressure than before. We know that families are struggling, so we’ve gathered some tips to support your family’s health during COVID. 

Parental struggles during lockdown

Photo by Charles Deluvioon Unsplash

Parenting is arguably one of the hardest experiences there is, and now many parents responsibilities are increasing with their children being home 24/7. This change brings a lot of stress to both kids and parents. A lot of parents are fighting more than usual; or, their children are fighting more than usual. Stay at home orders have increased the tension in a lot of homes.

It’s important to recognize why your family may be experiencing an increase in arguments. An article published by the US News brings up a very good point in saying that the stresses of the pandemic are, “triggering the part of the brain called the amygdala that’s involved in experiencing emotions and survival instincts, and igniting the fight-or-flight response in many. And since fleeing is not an option, fighting is becoming all too common among family members.” 

Tips for easing tension between your family

It’s understandable for everyone to be irritable sometimes, since humans experience healthily changing emotions. However, if you’ve noticed it’s become a persistent issue in your household since COVID hit, here are some tips to minimize the fighting:

• Communicate with your family members. Setting up a time for the whole family to talk is a good way to get issues off people’s chests. Let each family member discuss what has been bothering them lately, so that the other members are aware of the things that make them tick. For example, maybe your child gets irritated when their sibling leaves the bathroom a mess. Let them say that, and have the other sibling acknowledge that they will try harder to clean up after themself.  
• Set specific times for when you will have discussions with your partner. The pandemic brings new issues for couples to discuss, but it’s important not to argue about them in front of your children. You also don’t want to spend the little alone time you may get with your partner fighting. A psychologist from the Child Mind Institute recommends that parents set a time limit for pandemic-related discussions, at a time when their kids aren’t in ears reach. 

• Allow each family member time for personal space. Discuss personal boundaries with the whole family. Maybe have your children set up signs for when they need alone time, such as going to a certain area of the house, or closing the door in their bedroom, if they have their own. Parents can set up signs for each other as well.

• Parents, be kind to yourself. It is completely understandable if your children are getting more screen time right now. Sometimes that’s the only way that you’re able to give yourself a break. That’s okay. You’re not a bad parent if you’re losing your patience quicker these days. Check in with yourself, and be sure to be forgiving.

Family resources for parents 

Photo by AbsolutVisionon Unsplash

As previously mentioned, a lot of parents are attempting to work from home. That’s a huge challenge if your children are also home, and many families struggle to afford the steep childcare prices. Luckily, there are a lot of online resources for parents who need tips for entertaining their children at home. Many professionals have written articles on the issues families are experiencing during this pandemic. Rather than repeat their information, it’s best to direct you to the words of those most credible on these subjects, so here’s a list:

• “Fighting Family Burnout During the COVID-19 Crisis,” by Heathline 
• Some suggested activities to entertain children at home. There’s a great article by VeryWell Family, and another by HealthyChildren.Org
• “How to help siblings get along,” and “Single Parenting During the Coronavirus Crisis,” both by the Child Mind Institute
• “10 Online Teaching Resources for Parents During COVID-19,” by US News 

Conclusion

We all know that families are struggling during the coronavirus pandemic. If you need some proof, one of our recent posts highlights family hardships during COVID. Everyone is struggling, regardless of their family situation.

Knowing that there is a community behind you can do great things to lift your spirits. Safe Harbor IM is here to be that community for you. We have a prayer team dedicated to praying for you, and ensuring you that you aren’t alone. Check out our Prayer Garden here. 

Written by Grace Haass, blogger at Safe Harbor International Ministries. For more articles, check out our blog page at https://safeharborim.com/articles/