Ask: What do you feel? What do you need?

As educators, parents, other family members, or caregivers of any kind, we want to help others, including children and adolescents during this time. Do this by noticing what folks need and then, thinking together about how to best meet those needs. Start with yourself. Then, ask others, “What do you feel?” And, “What do you need?” Work together to meet those needs as best you can. That having been said, kids can’t always put their feelings and needs into words. Here are some ideas about what many youth might be feeling and needing right now. As always, if you are concerned about a child or adolescent, seek support, including crisis support, or call 911 if there is an emergency, such as a mental health emergency. And remember, we’re all in this together.