Happy Spring! The month of April came in with both enthusiasm and concerns. You are hopefully adjusting to losing an hour and are enjoying the longer days and warmer weather. The Covid 19 vaccine has become more readily available and there is much anticipation of a return to school, work place and social gatherings. Unfortunately, our reality is that in Michigan the number of Covid cases are rising. We have to remember that we are winning the battle but have yet to win the war. Please have fun but continue be safe! Another safety concern is gun violence. There were several mass shootings within one week in late March. This month’s issue is centered on the need to create a safe place for our children. They are so aware of what is going on in the world and while we have limited control of what happens outside of our homes, home should be a safe, secure place. Please see the suggestions for talking to your children about the violence that they may be hearing about through media and friends. Also consider some of the suggestions given on creating a sense of safety at home. There are articles about gardening with your child, setting up a quiet area of your home, and yoga for kids. Also see the resource page of ideas about racial justice and helping children feel safe and secure in the skin they are in.
– Beverly Weathington, LMSW, Community Engagement Coordinator, MPSI