This space is where we usually focus on employees. 

But the current state of world is a reminder: that employees are people first. 

So as we all adjust to this decidedly less-than-normal “normal,” we’re veering away from our typical messaging to send resources for you to share with your people as they support their families, their children, and themselves. 

For your team members with…

Young kids: Little ones are asking tough questions (“Are we going to be ok?”); the latest episode of Teach Play Love has help for giving answers. And because handwashing has never been more important, get kid-friendly tips from our hygiene super hero.  

School-age kids: Parents have their hands full trying to work, home school, and manage restlessness (theirs and the kids). Our Learning at Home guide has lots of great suggestions. Just remember to give yourself a break: there’s a reason that “keep realistic expectations” is at the top of the list.   

High school kids: Juniors needing creative ways to visit colleges can look here. Our own College Coach expert offered US News her take on how COVID-19 is affecting admissions, here. And because high school is more than academics, look here to support disappointed student athletes; and here to help performers mourning the cancelation of their high school musicals (with thanks to Broadway star Laura Benanti). And watch this space in the coming days as we check in with our own college experts about how to maintain academic achievement while at home. 

Elderly: Online games and chats (and old-school phone calls) are ideal for engaging (and checking in on) social-distancing elders. And make sure to provide something to look forward to. "Now's a good time,” one expert told the BBC “to make a plan together as a family." 

All of us: There’s no shortage of coronavirus-related stories about mental health – and for good reason. Experts say we’re grieving – for our routines, our safety, our sense of certainty. While taking care of work and family, we all need to take care of ourselves. The Washington Post has put together a roundup of mental health advice, here. 

Finally, our tips for learning at home may be geared toward helping kids. But the messages are relevant to all of us: make relationships a priority; create a routine; avoid social isolation; be patient with yourself. 

“You’re going to have hard days,” wrote our experts. “When frustration builds, pause momentarily and do something fun.”

To all who are working and caring for colleagues, families, and even complete strangers – we thank you.