Parenting Panel: Dr. Alexandra Sutherland’s COVID Coping Strategies
Alexandra Sutherland, Ph.D., C.Psych.
Dr. Alexandra Sutherland is a Clinical and School Psychologist at the Toronto District School Board and also offering private practice services in Toronto.
Dr. Sutherland is a registered Clinical and School Psychologist who trained at Queen’s University. Her focus is on the wellbeing of children and youth in the school and home settings. She provides assessment and therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and families. She has experience working with children with a range of developmental, intellectual, and academic needs, including intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy working with anxiety, mood, and behavioural diagnoses and concerns.
Dr. Sutherland currently works in the school setting and also offers private practice services in Central Toronto. She can be reached at alexandra.sutherland@gmail.com
What is your best piece of advice for parents to help kids cope with fear around COVID-19?
Focus on what we are working toward, rather than what we are afraid of, and the fact that they are not alone.
“The whole world is working together to help people stay healthy.”
What are you favourite tips for keeping kids busy and active while physically distancing?
Create a routine or schedule with your child so they feel like they are part of the decisions. Younger children may find it fun to decorate a visual calendar or plan for the day. Build in physical activity at different points throughout the day with lots of variety. If you can’t get outside, YouTube and Instagram have online dance parties and workouts that parents and children can do together.
Most importantly, though, is to allow for flexibility and forgiveness because things will come up and you do have things that you need to focus on, like working, meals, and giving yourself a break. If you don’t stick to your plan for the day, that is perfectly ok! If you are giving extra screen time, that is absolutely fine! Everyone is doing the best they can with what they have.
Thank you to Dr. Alexandra Sutherland for your calming suggestions!
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