Our lives have changed dramatically as a result of COVID-19. We do not yet know the long-term impacts of this particular global experience, but we do know a lot about stress and how it impacts the developing brain and body. And, thankfully, there are plenty of strategies everyone can use to lessen these impacts on children and build their resilience. This three-hour session will describe the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children, and what we as adults can do to support them. Participants will also explore their own coping strategies and how they can continue to keep themselves healthy as they support the children in their care.

Objectives:

• Describe the types of stress and how they impact the brain and body
• Identify potential impacts of stress children may be experiencing related to COVID-19
• Discuss broad and specific strategies for supporting children who are experiencing stress
• Discuss how to adjust support strategies to align with current health protocols
• Identify community resources to support children and families
• Explore adults own coping strategies