Self-Care September

Hope you are all doing well. As our communities recover from the recent tropical storm and inclement weather, it is important to care for your family and your own well-being. Pause, breathe, and take note of your feelings and stress level. Reach out for support as needed and be safe!

Keiki may be experiencing a range of emotions in response to changes in routine, power outages, storm damage, and concern for family and friends. Children often look to the adults around them for cues about safety and recovery.

A few ways we can help:

• Reassure and reconnect. Provide calm, simple reminders that caring adults are working to keep them safe.

• Restore routines when possible. Familiar activities, meals, school routines, and bedtime can help rebuild a sense of predictability and safety.

• Make space for feelings. Listen and let keiki know that worry, sadness, frustration, or other reactions are understandable.

• Limit repeated storm coverage. Share age-appropriate information while reducing unnecessary exposure to upsetting images and reports.

• Watch for changes. Reach out for additional support when distress is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life.

Hazel Health provides FREE online therapy visits for all Hawaii Department of Education’s students, with guardian consent. Match with a licensed therapist that specializes in kids and teens. Scan the QR code on the flyer for additional information and to sign up for services.

Words have power! Speaking positive affirmations as a family can help build confidence, connection, and resilience. Try saying these together...

This newsletter is a joint collaboration of the DOE Central District's School Social Workers and Human Services Professionals. The purpose is to highlight information that you may find useful, and does not serve as a comprehensive list. We do not endorse any specific organization. Mahalo!