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How Pre-K Programs Set Children Up for Success in Kindergarten and Beyond

COVID-19 has parents across the country wondering what the upcoming school year will look like for their children. Locally, many preschool and pre-kindergarten programs have been canceled due to the pandemic. This includes the Omaha Public Schools Foundation Parent-Pay Pre-K Program.
These closings are unfortunate because young children who do not attend a Pre-K program are missing out on the many benefits they offer. Research has shown that Pre-K is an especially important year because it provides children with their initial exposure to school and can set the tone for their educational journey. In other words, these programs get kids off on the right foot.

How to Soothe Weather-Related Anxiety in Children

Tornadoes and thunderstorms are a common occurrence in the Midwest and causes weather-related anxiety. Children may experience high levels of stress in the spring and summer. And while it is true that fears surrounding severe weather usually decrease as a child gets older, parents can do more than just wait for their children to grow out of this common childhood fear.

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The importance of keeping routines for children

During the current COVID-19 crisis, many families are seeing their normal routines up-ended. This can cause stress and anxiety for all family members – especially children. Keeping a sense of calm can help kids manage their anxiety while also teaching them some important lessons about resilience. Lessons they can use long after the current pandemic has passed.

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COVID-19 Pandemic Sheds Light on the Importance of Grandparents and Extended Family

The need to shelter in place has taught us a lot about ourselves and our families, especially the importance of grandparents. Perhaps one of the most important things it has taught us is that dependence on extended family isn’t a bad thing. In fact, once some semblance of normalcy returns, the commitment to strengthen these family ties is likely to occur.