News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Snow days can be more than just a break from school, they provide an opportunity for parents to build stronger bonds with their children.
Ridgeview Behavioral Health Director of Development Michael Yates said the best thing a parent can do for their child on a snow day is spend time with them. Yates said snow days disrupt a child’s routine, which can be challenging but beatable. He also said that the best way to combat this is by planning activities ahead of time that can strengthen the parent-child relationship.
“If you’re able to that, parent and child together, what a gift. What a gift when parents can play with there kids,” Yates said. “A snow day is a good day to do that. I still have fond memories of my grandfather teaching me how to build an igloo.”
Yates also said that a parent’s imagination should be nurtured and used regularly especially with their child. He said that by creating lasting memories, especially creative ones, a child’s mind can be reinforced and guided toward their full potential.
“Unfortunately, I’m afraid it’s a diminishing virtue that we as humans are developing,” Yates said. “Whether it’s through the arts, through imaginations, creativity.”
Ridgeview Behavior Therapist Rachel Day said snow days are good for mental health in both the student, teacher, and parent. Day said engaging with your kid allows a kid to use creative skills rather than paper or technology. Day said that snow days or bad weather days is a blessing and a great way to evolve imagination skills as a parent.
“I think its also a great opportunity for bonding with the parent or caregiver,” Day said. “Sometimes it’s hard for a parent too want to play or know how to play with the kid appropriately.”
Yates said that spending quality time and engaging constantly with your child, as well as being on the same page is crucial for fostering understanding.
