Have you heard this saying about the pandemic, “We are all in the same storm but in different boats?” For most of us, our boat took a turn recently when many schools went back to virtual. I think it is safe to say we all are over COVID. For working parents, this has created even more challenges. Kids that were in face-to-face school are now virtual again, which means making more adjustments to daily routines.
ASE has put together some resources to assist parents no matter what boat you are in while you weather this fast-moving storm.
Parent Support Resources:
TEAMS – Create a parents TEAMS channel. Give parents in your company a place to share resources, ideas, and how to overcome challenges.
Parents Together - News and information for busy parents so your family can thrive.
COVID Pickle – Pipeline of parents and retired teachers who can assist your kids in reaching their assigned goals.
Remote Guide to Working From Home with Kids
Learning Pods
Childcare Resources:
State of Michigan
The state of Michigan has partnered with Focus Hope to coordinate childcare for essential workers at daycares throughout Michigan. In addition, some daycares have been designated as emergency daycares for essential workers. Families can complete the form at www.helpmegrow-mi.org/ essential or call 211 if they need assistance locating available care.
YMCA Learning Centers
The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit will operate its Y Learning Centers in compliance with the safety protocols outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state of Michigan. Y Learning Centers for children ages 5-12 More information is available here. Early learning childcare is currently also available for children ages six weeks to 5 years old. More information is available here.
Wellness Resourcs
Employee Assistance Programs – Check with your EAP provider for resources to help parents deal with the stress and anxiety surrounding COVID-19.
Thaar Care Foundation – Provides prevention, education, and community awareness associated with mental health services.
Learning Resources
Khan Academy Age of Learning
ABC Mouse BrainPOP
Sylvan Learning TEDEd@Home
What has your company done to help working parents? Visit the ASE Community and post your tips in the Working Parents forum.