Establish routines

In times like these, maintaining a routine for children and young people is more important than ever. Whilst this can be extremely challenging due to the current lockdown climate, we know that a routine gives children and young people stability, structure and this inherently helps them to feel safe and be safe.

Simple things can help provide structure and enjoyment:

• A regular breakfast time
• Family exercise time and
• Family game times

Online time, risks and opportunities

As children and young people will be spending more time at home, it is likely that they will also spend more time online. The online world is a great resource to help children and young people to continue to learn and socialise during this current lockdown. However, we know that during times like these, there is an increased risk for children and young people to be targeted online by those who may wish to harm them.

Risks

The risks can be include children and young people:

• being cyber-bullied
• being asked to send inappropriate images
• being groomed.

Tips

• Limit and supervise where possible children and young people’s online time.
• Have conversations with children and young people about the above risks.
• Letting children and young people know they can speak to an adult or the Kids Helpline (phone 1800 551 800) if ever feeling unsafe, is a great tool in a child or young person’s safety toolbox!
• Try and limit the amount of exposure children and young people have to the constant negative news about Coronavirus – as this repeated messaging can be traumatic.

Tips and help for parents!

Children and young people rely on us as adults to help keep them safe. We know that this is a difficult time for adult. We may have financial worries and the stress of a full household with little time or space to ourselves.

Keep active

Keeping active can really help us to manage our stress as well as children and young peoples’.

The Y has teamed up with Les Mills to provide free online workouts for Y members and staff and your families. There are workouts aimed at adults as well as family workouts which are a fun way to connect together during this time.  You can request to sign up for these services here.

Keep an eye on our social channels @YMCA Australia for other online exercise opportunities for you and your loved ones from local and global Ys.  Where possible, we are shifting programs and supports online to keep our communities healthy, happy and connected.

Help for family violence

We also know that during times of crisis, there is an increased risk of conflict in the home. Whilst we all bicker with our family, it is essential that everyone in the house is aware that they have the right to be safe, which includes us as adults. During crisis events, research suggests that family violence increases. Family violence is never okay, and there are lots of support organisations out there to help. Their advice is to call one of their hotlines and stay connected to the wider world, including friends, families and workplaces (even if workers are not in the workplace).

If you, a child, young person or anyone you know is in immediate danger call 000 for help.

For Y staff and volunteers

The Y also has an Employee Assistance program for employees and volunteers, who are able to support across a wide range of issues. Alternatively, you can contact any of the support lines below to help you during this difficult time.

Stay safe!

Crisis Support Services for everyone

Non- Crisis Support Services