BREAKING POINT WITH MY SONS IN LOCKDOWN

Dear Coleen

I’m having a tough time with my two sons in lockdown, who are aged seven and nine. I’m struggling to get them to concentrate on homeschooling – there are tears and huge meltdowns, and often I just give up and let them do what they want because it’s so stressful.

I imagine there’s weeks of lockdown to go and I don’t know how to regain some control and keep things calm at home. My husband tries to help where he can, but he’s extremely busy and is the sole breadwinner. Can you help?

Coleen says

Firstly, you have my sympathy in bucketloads! This situation is so tough on parents and, quite frankly, I don’t know how any of you are keeping it all together – including your sanity.

I think it’s tougher this time round because it’s winter and you can’t just chuck them out in the garden when they need a break or even do some lessons outside.

But, look, everyone is in the same boat and teachers understand that it’s difficult for children. I think it would help to have a structure to the day and throw some nice things in there, too. Have rewards for concentrating on work and also take them out on a big walk once a day or to a play park to expend all of that pent-up energy.

Also, judge their mood and, if they’re really not up for it, change the schedule and go back to it. Do what’s right for you and your family in terms of keeping things happy at home.

You can only do your best and you’re doing a great job, so don’t be too hard on yourself.