Sandy Hook Promise’s mission is grounded in choosing to value prevention over fear. That’s why, given the evolving scope of the pandemic, we’re protecting our staff, partners, and the school communities we serve. We also recognize social distancing can lead to isolation and fear – especially in students who are already vulnerable or troubled.
There remains uncertainty about when schools will re-open and normal activities resume. These uncertain times can bring about feelings of anxiety, loneliness, frustration, depression, and annoyance.
Increasing Safety and Connections During COVID-19
Our experts offer the following tips to help parents and educators help keep children safe and connected throughout the pandemic.
Start With Hello teaches three steps that can be useful during these times. See Someone Alone, Reach Out and Help, and Start With Hello! For schools that remain open, our online and self-led Start With Hello and Say Something trainings are always available and can be implemented on-demand in a single class period.
SAVE Promise Club has created youth activities that you can adapt for remote or virtual engagement. Learn more about how you can join the club.
Say Something helps students recognize signs of bullying an potential threats. Students may be bullied due to their health or ethnicity, especially if they become ill or are from heavily impacted areas. To help counter bias, schedule a virtual meet-up or phone call and do a “circle up” found on page 14 of this activity guide.
Distance Learning Resources
Webinars: Our webinars give parents, educators, and others with children in their lives concrete tools and resources. This free resource helps protect and support young people during these challenging times.
You can also download our full Youth and Educator Activity Guide for Times of Social Distancing.
Our partner NAMI offers NAMI Basics. This 6-session education program is for parents, caregivers, and other family members who care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms. Learn more.
Connect with Us
Sandy Hook Promise will continue to look for ways to help students to connect and create a sense of belonging and community through the Coronavirus epidemic and beyond. Contact us online or follow us on Twitter @sandyhook or Instagram and Facebook @sandyhookpromise to share your ideas or find others!
