‌

March 25, 2020

Hello BBBS participants: In the wake of this unprecedented health crisis and time of uncertainty, we've comprised a guide to help make the adjustment smoother. The BBBS staff is working remotely and is available to assist with supporting matches. Please reach out to my personal cell phone or by email. We are all in this together. (989)429-6189 or cgage@bbbsmitten.org Carol Bruce-Gage Executive Director

Michigan citizens can still engage in outdoor physical activities such as walking, hiking, running, and biking. You can still fill your car with gas and pick up take-out food. For the full list of critical services that will remain open and information on what the Governor Executive Orders prohibit, visit: Michigan.gov/coronavirus .

Your Mental Health

Below are links with further information and activities to do as a family: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html https://news.uga.edu/boost-physical-activity-social-distancing/ https://newywithkids.com.au/family-fun-social-distancing-coronavirus/

Supporting our Kids

Follow these links for an example of a daily schedule and how to discuss the outbreak with your children: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/education/story/2020-03-18/how-to-keep-kids-healthy-and-learning-during-coronavirus-school-closures-according-to-experts https://nypost.com/2020/03/16/how-to-keep-your-kid-on-a-schedule-during-coronavirus-school-closings/ https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource

Virtual Match Activities

Matches are to NOT meet until at least April 15. However, we encourage matches to remain in contact. Listed above are ways Bigs and Littles can communicate. Check out the link below if you're interested in participating in a virtual field trip with your little. https://www.weareteachers.com/best-virtual-field-trips/

Additional Online Resources

The (EDEN) Extension Disaster Education Network offers free resources to help people stay informed and cope with the unfolding developments of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://extensiondisaster.net/ MSU Remote Learning offers many online learning programs for children and adults at no charge. https://www.canr.msu.edu/rlr/index Live Science provides more examples of indoor activities for children. https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-kids-activities.html Kids Cooking Activities offers over 500 recipes and kids' meals ideas https://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/

Michigan 2*1*1

Visit their website to learn more.  https://www.mi211.org/