Going back to school was certainly one of them! As mental health providers, we have learned that just like one’s mental health treatment, each student’s education will look different this year as well. There is no right or wrong answer and what may work best for one student and family may not work for others.

With everything that we are experiencing right now as a community, it is important that above all else, we practice grace with ourselves as well as each other.

There will be times schooling may look different or may not be as effective. We are seeing an array of choices in the facilitation of schooling, to include brick and mortar classes, virtual learning, and hybrid learning.

I challenge you as parents (and now educators) to think outside of the box. Be creative with this time we have with our kids and aim to facilitate a learning environment that works for their learning style. Check out the following ideas below for some ways to supplement your child’s schooling while having fun in the process!

• Taking walks and integrating physical activity as Gym Class
• Allow your children to help you cook in the kitchen and learn measuring and cooking lessons
• Art Projects that can be done as a family
• Field Trips: Check out free museums and parks in the area (Make sure to wear your PPE wear and wash your hands)
• Getting your student involved in a sports team or after school club for socialization and extracurricular activities

School is out. Families are together. The first few weeks are great, until the heat and boredom kick in. Now we have the question- what are we going to do all summer? Luckily, we have found some great cost effective and/or free activities and places for families to visit together this summer!

• Museum of Science and History
• Riverside Arts Market
• Kingsley Plantation
• Friendship Fountain
• Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
• Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens (Free on Tuesdays)
• Adventure Landing
• Events at your local library
• Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Games
• Bowling
• Art Walks
• Playing at your local park!

Please also take a moment to view the following websites which have great ideas for summertime fun!

https://www.almostsupermom.com/10-free-things-to-do-in-jacksonville-fl/

Please also remember when engaging in activities outside with your family and kids, to follow the following safety tips:

• Staying hydrated is key!!
• Beware of the sun and wear sunscreen
• Practice safety when riding bikes and playing in the pool
• Beware of thunder and lightening

Above all else, have fun, be present in the moment, and enjoy each other! Happy summer from the Right Path Family!!

When we think of self-care, we often think of relaxation, stress-relief, decompression, and most importantly, enjoyment. We want to feel our best and re-set. To let loose is sometimes the best way for us to get there.

The reality is, sometimes self-care can be uncomfortable. It can be difficult to navigate.

As clinicians, we are often tasked with having uncomfortable or crucial conversations with the people that we serve; the purpose being growth and positive change. Self-care should be looked at the same way. Sometimes we need to get the uncomfortable responsibilities out of the way so we are able to truly focus on being our best selves. By acting with intention, we can set ourselves up in environments and situations that promote safety, security, resiliency, and a healthy place for growth.

Some areas of self-care that are often overlooked:

• Appropriate Sleep Hygiene
• Check-ups with a Primary Care Physician
• Blood Work
• Exercise
• Eating Healthy
• Cleaning
• Addressing Areas of Procrastination
• Budgeting
• Hydrating Your Body
• Being Social
• Prioritizing Alone Time

So now as the reader, I challenge YOU! Take a few moments and review your self-care regimen. What can you add into your day to day routine that would allow for you to operate at your best self?