STAYing cONNECTED

One important step in the roadmap to resilience is maintaining a strong support system of friends and loved ones. The current environment of social distancing and quarantines presents unique challenges when it comes to connecting with others. Here are a few ways our family has found to bridge the gap with those outside our home:

1. Checking in frequently via text.

Whether or not you’re normally a big texter (I’m not), now is a great time to use this tool to stay in touch. Even a quick, “How are you doing today?” can be a lifesaver for a friend who’s struggling.

2. Using Facebook or another social media app.

I prefer Facebook for a few reasons:

(1) It’s super easy to share photos and videos, along with text.
(2) Its Messenger feature is a great way to message a group of friends. (Better than text for groups, IMO, because I tend to get annoyed when my phone is constantly pinging every time someone replies to the group.) Facebook Messenger allows you to simply turn off notifications for a set period of time (for example, while you’re working or trying to homeschool), yet still access the messages at your leisure.
(3) The Messenger Kids app is fantastic. It has strict parental controls, and allows kids to connect with friends via traditional text or live video chat.

3. Zoom “virtual happy hours.”

​Zoom is a free app that allows for group videos. Prior to the coronavirus, the app was largely used by businesses for remote video conferencing. In recent weeks, however, many have discovered that Zoom is a fantastic way to get together with a group of friends for a virtual happy hour or dinner. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

4. Humor

Lets face it: All of this uncertainty and disruption is scary. And humor is a wonderful tension reliever. A funny meme or inside joke with friends can help turn someone’s mood around.

5. Snail mail.

Kids love to send and receve letters, but keeping in touch the “old-timey” way can be super gratifying for adults, too.

6. Neighborhood Games

Most of us have seen sweet chalk drawings popping up around our neighborhoods. Did you know the hearts are messages of love and support, a way for neighbors to show solidarity during these uncertain and isolating times? Pick a nice day, head out to your driveway or sidewalk, and draw a heart or write an uplifting note. You just might make someone’s day.

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