SAVVYkids | February 2021

News & Notes 54 | Age of Anxiety pg 58 | Meet the Parent pg 62

THE AGE OF

ANXIETY

the project prevent

s n o i s s i m sub epted acc 1 1 y r a u Jan - to 1 2 0 2 , 9 l Apri

Arkansas students in grades K-3 can create artwork to help others REACH the truth about smoking, dipping or vaping.

to learn more, visit projectpreventar.org and follow us on social media @projectpreventar.

youth coalition presents

Arkansas students in grades 4-6 can write an essay to REACH family and friends to help them quit tobacco or REACH the truth about e-cigarettes and vaping.

REACH!

Kids’ Books by Arkansas Authors Book comes with sing-along

DVD

Your child can read these delightfully illustrated pages in the book, then watch and sing along with the accompanying DVD. Great entertainment for kids of varied interests and backgrounds!

This well-illustrated book and more (many in audio book) and all autographed by the authors are available at:

NEWS & NOTES Feb. 2,

GROUNDHOG DAY: This year, Punxsutawney Phil will be

making his live annual prognostication from Pennsylvania without a crowd. He might prefer this, as groundhogs are very shy and eschew the limelight. To honor the day, may we suggest reading books about groundhogs, such as “Groundhog’s Runaway Shadow” by David Biedrzycki, and learning fun facts about these solitary animals: • They are related to squirrels (though when asked, squirrels emphasize “distantly”).

• There’s a movement by some animal rights groups to replace “Punxsutawney Phil” with a robot, arguing that these timid creatures should not be put on display or interrupted from their natural hibernation cycle.

• They’re impressive architects. A groundhog’s burrow can be anywhere from 8 to 66 feet long, with multiple exits, chambers and levels — a “bedroom” for hibernating, “summer home” with easily accessible exits, bathroom, rec room and office.

• Groundhogs go by many names, including “whistle-pig” for their tendency to emit short, high-pitched whistles. They’re also called land beavers (not to their faces) and woodchucks.

(An addendum: Hedgehogs, not to be outdone, will have you know that Feb. 2 is also National Hedgehog Day.)

www.PatBeckerBooks.com

SAVVY kids

Feb. 12, CHINESE NEW YEAR: Make paper lanterns or an authentic Chinese dish to ring in the Year of the Ox.

WANT TO ADVERTISE WITH US? Interested in sponsorship opportunities?

Contact Brooke Wallace at brooke@arktimes.com @savvykidsar

SAVVY kids PUBLISHER BROOKE WALLACE | brooke@arktimes.com

EDITOR KATHERINE WYRICK | katherinewyrick@arktimes.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE LESA THOMAS ART DIRECTOR KATIE HASSELL

Feb. 16,

MARDI GRAS: Critical care nurse Carrie Wills with her

husband, Nathanael, and daughters, Lela (7) and Poppy (2), are annual fixtures at the Mardi Gras parade in SOMA — always atop a fantastical, impressive float. This year, however, they’ll be celebrating at home. Says Carrie: “We may make gumbo, a king cake and listen to lots of Dirty Dozen [Brass Band] and Dr. John.” Sounds like a plan! Just for curiosity’s sake, you could also see how many of those colorful Mardi Gras beads you can gather up from different corners of your house.

You may be surprised by how many you find.

Feb. 14,

VALENTINE’S DAY:

What is Valentine’s Day, you ask, in the age of physical distancing? Without cuddles, snuggles, kisses and hugs? Not to worry, there’s still fun to be had. How about starting things off with a scavenger hunt in your house or yard (after a breakfast of candy)? Set up a series of clues that lead from one treat to another and end the hunt with a special prize for the whole family. Kids love looking for clues, and this has the added benefit of promoting some basic critical thinking skills and reading (and giving you a minute, just a minute).

You may also want to check out the newly released “Good Dog Carl” book. “Good Dog Carl’s Valentine” is the 23rd picture book in the beloved series about the babysitting Rottweiler. (If ever there was a time we needed for a dog cum nanny, it’s now.

Help us, Carl!)

Feb. 27, NATIONAL POKEMON DAY:

Time to play some Pokemon! Made easier by the fact that your house is probably already littered with cards and figurines. “Gotta catch ’em all!” as they say. Here are a few Pokemon facts to mark the occasion: • The name Pokemon is a contraction of the Japanese brand “Poketto Monsuta” — or Pocket Monsters.

• Creator Satoshi Tajiri hunted bugs as a kid and traded them with friends — the inspiration for Pokemon.

• There are more than 800 species of Pokemon monsters.

STORYTIME AT CALS

Nothing is more central to the Central Arkansas Library System than storytime, so it’s been adapted for life in 2021. There will now be virtual storytime at 10 a.m. every weekday on the CALS Kids Facebook page. Each Monday will be Kids in the Kitchen Storytime, with food-related books and activities; Tuesday will be Baby & Toddler Storytime, with age-appropriate books, singalongs, puppet shows and more; Wednesdays are reserved for Preschool Storytime; and Thursdays will be devoted to a Read Aloud Storytime. Fridays will be a mix of different storytime offerings, including occasional guest readers from outside the library.

Great Things STILL Happening at LRSD

Building STRONG SCHOOLS and Even STRONGER COMMUNITIES

OPTIONS TO MEET EVERY NEED

Dedicated early open enrollment period has ended, but it is never too late to join the LRSD family.

Visit: LRSD.org – Student Registration (K-12) or LRSD.org/earlychildhood (Pre-K) Great THINGS are still happening at LRSD! The Little Rock School District salutes our two Amazing Educators for 2020-21 — among 3,500 dedicated professionals who remain committed to meeting the needs of each student, even during a pandemic.

From rigorous academic engagement for those identified as gifted and talented to support for those facing learning, speech or physical challenges, LRSD — the state’s second largest district — offers unique, comprehensive educational approaches for pre-K to 12th-grade students.

LRSD takes pride in its highly qualified teachers — nearly half of all classroom teachers have a masters or doctoral degree and 155 have National Board Certification — among the most in the state. LRSD continues to operate the state’s only K-8 STEM campus, eight magnet schools and a uniquely-focused language and literacy elementary academy, and last year, continued to expand Little Rock West High School of Innovation, adding a 10th grade class. Subsequent grades will be added each year for a 9-12 delivery.

Little Rock Hall STEAM Academy was also introduced, enhancing its focus on science and engineering academies under the Academies of Central Arkansas (Ford NGL) umbrella. High school college preparatory programs, including pre-AP, AP, classes

with local universities and the District’s EXCEL program, provide multiple options for families. These programs allow students to align their educational experience with their interests, preparing them for college and career and equipping them to meet the challenges of a global society.

LRSD consistently places among the top tier of state schools with National Merit Semifinalists, as well as Commended, National Hispanic and AP Scholars.

LRSD is proud of its highly accomplished students and the community partnerships that enhance their educational experiences.

Students will continue taking their learning to the next level at the newly constructed career-focused Little Rock Southwest High School.

LRSD is also the state’s largest provider of public preschool programs with certified teachers in every class. The District’s pre-K students continue to outperform students who do not use LRSD’s pre-K program in every skill area. The District maintains its mission to provide students with equitable access to educational opportunities, equipping them with what they need to succeed.

THE AGE OF ANXIETY

Let’s talk about kids’ mental health.

BY KATHERINE WYRICK

T

he ongoing coronavirus pandemic, coupled with today’s political and social unrest, have made it more important than ever to keep mental health in the conversation. The persistent stress, fear, grief and uncertainty can wear anyone down, but children and teens may have an especially tough time coping.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that rates of anxiety and depression have increased between twoand four-fold compared to the same time last year. Even before the coronavirus hit, these mental health problems were on the rise in children ages 6 to 17; research shows that social isolation can make these symptoms worse. Poverty, food insecurity, abuse, neglect, loss of health insurance and lack of access to health care further exacerbate these issues.

Defined by the CDC, “Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices.”

There’s a wide range of mental health issues that affect children and adolescents: anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, depression and other mood disorders, PTSD and schizophrenia. There is also the problem of substance abuse as it relates to these. For the purposes of this article, however, the main focus is on anxiety and depression.

On a personal note, my three children — 8, 18 and 21 — have all struggled to varying degrees with both over the past year. Though they manifest in different ways depending on a child’s developmental stage, we’ve discovered that teletherapy in combination with medication (if needed) and a mindfulness practice helps at almost any age.

In the middle of last year, our youngest began to exhibit irrational fears — for instance, that our house was sinking. These

typically appeared at night, and bedtime became a teary ordeal.

Pre-pandemic, he was quick to fall asleep after our usual ritual, but now, as the sun went down, he became agitated — sometimes even vomiting. Melatonin and sleep stories on the Calm app changed everything. We also found that Cosmic Kids Yoga, a few teletherapy sessions and the book series “Big Bright Feelings” helped.

Our daughter — poised to launch — was unable to attend college as planned; she, along with a generation of her peers, found herself in limbo and isolated from friends. Our older son — also isolated from friends and his college community — switched to virtual learning and in his last year of school faces an uncertain future. A recent study by the American Psychological Association shows that Gen Z teens (ages 13-17) and Gen Z adults (ages 18-23)

“We can’t control the pandemic, the circumstances, but we do control how we respond.”

are seeing the most marked rise in anxiety and depression during this time because they are at a pivotal moment in their lives.

“Anxiety is very common,” said Amy Cates, a licensed social worker at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and mom of two children, 8 and 11. “The switch to virtual school has

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: • Excessive crying or irritation in younger children.

• Regression (i.e. toileting accidents or bedwetting).

• Excessive, persistent worry or sadness (for two or more weeks).

• Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits/difficulty sleeping.

• Changes in weight.

• Poor school performance or avoiding school.

• Difficulties with attention and concentration.

• Avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past.

• Irritability and “acting out” behaviors.

• Use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.

• Withdrawing from or avoiding social interactions.

• Hurting oneself or talking about hurting oneself.

• Talking about death or suicide.

• Out-of-control behavior that can be harmful.

• Drastic changes in mood, behavior, personality or appearance.

• Unexplained headaches, stomachaches or body pain.

been hard on kids. The pandemic has also brought out marital issues, which in turn affects kids. ... A lot of times the problem is a family dynamic. ... It’s not easy because a lot of the coping skills people had have disappeared — whether it was a book club or sport or whatever.”

A shift in perspective can help, Cates said. “Instead of thinking of this year as a wasted year, think of it as a different year — maybe a time to restructure values and slow down. … There are so many things we can’t control. … We can’t control the pandemic, the circumstances, but we do control how we respond. ...

“It’s so important to acknowledge the anxiety and teach kids that they can manage discomfort.”

Cates suggested making small changes. “Stick to the basics: healthy sleeping and eating habits, less screen time and develop a consistent, but not rigid, schedule.” Routines give a sense of stability to children and teens, especially those who struggle with anxiety. (The Sleep Foundation recommends 9-11 hours of sleep for children ages 6-13, and 8-10 hours of sleep each night for teens ages 14-17.)

E. Christopher Lloyd, associate professor in the School of Social Work at UA Little Rock, shared his perspective: “Science clearly shows humans are biologically driven to be social, so it’s no surprise the distancing (and sometimes isolation) required by the pandemic has caused hardship for children and their families.

A large national study indicated both parents’ and children’s physical and mental health worsening as the pandemic grinds on. … What we don’t know is how many of these problems will persist beyond the pandemic and how many will resolve spontaneously as vaccinations ramp up and the pandemic winds down.”

So what are parents and caregivers to do? Before diving into specifics, let’s remember the tired but apt metaphor of “putting your oxygen mask on first.” Taking care of yourself makes you a

PCSSD REGISTRATION Registration is now open for the 2021-2022 school year for Pulaski County Special School District. This includes new and returning students to the district. Parents can register their student(s) using the online gateway registration system located at pcssd.org/register.

Important Dates to Remember • January 4 - May 1, 2021: Arkansas School Choice Applications accepted • January 11, 2021: Online registration opens for students new to the District in grades K through 12 • February 1 - April 30, 2021: Returning student registration • May 10, 2021: Equity and Pupil Services will begin accepting permits

More Information • K-12 Registration: please call 501.234.2021 • Pre- K Registration: please call 501.234.2065

REGISTER NOW pcssd.org/register

better parent. Sometimes it’s hard not to despair, especially when struggling with your own stress, but try to stay positive and relay consistent messages that a brighter future lies ahead. Here are some simple stress-management strategies for kids and caregivers:

FIRST STEPS

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, you may first want to reach out to your child’s teachers to see if they’ve noticed any changes in behavior (if they’re in the classroom) and then contact your pediatrician. Note that for teens it’s important to offer them some privacy to talk with their pediatrician to ensure they have the chance to speak as openly as possible.

Mental health conditions in children are diagnosed and treated based on signs and symptoms and how the condition affects a child’s daily life. To make a diagnosis, your child’s doctor might recommend that your child be evaluated by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, clinical social worker, psychiatric nurse or other mental health care professional. A comprehensive assessment of a child’s mental health may include the following: • Complete medical exam and medical history.

• History of physical or emotional trauma.

• Family history of physical and mental health.

• Review of symptoms and general concerns with parents.

• Timeline of child’s developmental progress.

• Academic history.

• Conversations with and observations of the child.

• Standardized assessments and questionnaires for the child and parents.

Treatment options may include psychotherapy and/or medication.

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE GUIDE ARKANSAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 1 Children’s Way Little Rock, AR 72202 501-364-1100 archildrens.org

BRIDGEWAY 21 Bridgeway Rd. North Little Rock, AR 72113 501-771-1500 thebridgeway.com

CENTERS FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES 6425 W. 12th St. Little Rock, AR 72204 501-666-7233 centersforyouthandfamilies.net

METHODIST FAMILY HEALTH 1600 Aldersgate Road, Little Rock 501-661-0720 methodistfamily.org

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or behavior therapy, is a way to address mental health concerns by talking with a psychologist or other mental health professional. Children and adolescents learn how to talk about thoughts and feelings, how to respond to them and how to learn new behaviors and coping skills.

My family can attest to the value of psychotherapy (and cognitive behavior therapy) for teens and play therapy for younger children. Heather Chapman-Henry, a licensed social worker and play therapist, told us why she believes in the efficacy of play therapy and how it works: “Play is a very natural form of communication that all kids do.

Using play in therapy is an easy way to connect and begin to solve problems from the very beginning. For example, blowing bubbles to work on deep breathing or using Play-Doh to create a safe place is fun and easy for a kid because you are already using tools they are familiar with and it’s something they understand. Kids don’t feel as intimidated by therapy because they are already the experts

“Kids don’t feel as intimidated by [play] therapy because they are already the experts in play.”

in play. Another example might be using animal puppets to create a play about friendships; kids can describe and work through feelings of jealousy, loneliness, etc., and then [using the puppets] solve their own problems or issues without really realizing they are doing it. One of the best things about kids and play therapy is that they learn from a young age that therapy is natural, empowering and can sometimes even be fun.”

Your child’s doctor or mental health professional may also recommend medication, such as a stimulant, antidepressant, antianxiety medication, antipsychotic or mood stabilizer. Medication is best used along with psychotherapy.

KEEP CALM AND FIND HELP

In Central Arkansas, we’re fortunate to have a variety of mental health resources. You’ll find a more inclusive directory in this issue, but we highlight a few here: Methodist Family Health offers inpatient psychiatric hospitalization for children ages 3 to 17; outpatient counseling clinics; grief counseling services; psychiatric residential treatment centers; therapeutic group homes; school-based counseling services; therapeutic day treatment programs for kindergarten through 12th grades; and Arkansas CARES (Centers for Addictions Research, Education and Services) for mothers struggling with both substance abuse and mental health issues. Methodist Family Health offers 24hour confidential, no-charge assessments for children and adolescents in crisis and accepts Medicaid and most private insurance.

“Our mission is to provide the best possible care to those who may need our help,” Kelli Reep of Methodist Family Health said.

“With COVID, national issues, shorter days and longer nights, cold weather and a general, persistent sense of uncertainty, it is

more important than ever to seek help for your emotions. There is always hope, and we can help you find it.”

The BridgeWay offers inpatient treatment of children ages 4-12 and adolescents 13-17. It offers confidential assessments at no cost on-site or through mobile services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Centers for Youth and Families offers a number of services that promote emotional and social wellness for children and families. Among them: outpatient counseling, residential treatment and day treatment. Its Day Treatment Program serves children and youths from kindergarten through 12th grade with social, emotional or behavioral problems who can no longer function in a traditional academic setting to continue their education. The Outpatient Clinic provides counseling services for children, teens and adults. Outpatient services can start as early as infancy. You can receive family and group therapies as well as case management, psychiatric consultation, evaluation and medication management. Bilingual therapists are available.

So during these trying times, make sure to check in with your children often, and invite them to talk about how they are feeling.

Make mental health an ongoing conversation and remember — help is at hand if you need it. a

“It’s so important to acknowledge the anxiety and teach kids that they can manage discomfort.”

DAILY TOOLS TO MANAGE ANXIETY (YOURS AND THEIRS):

• Keep small promises to yourself every day (i.e. drink more water).

• Get outside and get your feet on the ground — literally.

• Exercise.

• Practice mindfulness and positive thinking.

• Stay in the moment.

• Try this five senses meditation with your child.

Take a breath and notice: Five things you can see Four things you can feel Three things you can hear Two things you can taste And one thing you can smell • Make a daily gratitude list — from the smallest things to the big ones.

• Practice good sleep hygiene: Limit sugar and caffeine; stop using electronics at least an hour before bed; make the bedroom dark and cool.

Quality Care Rooted in Arkansas

hope Is The Foundation. recovery Is The Journey.

In response to the growing needs of our community, The BridgeWay has expanded its continuum of care for substance use disorders. The acute rehabilitation program will provide hope and recovery for adults struggling with substance use disorders. Led by Dr. Schay, and a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist, the Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation Program is for adults at risk of relapse. Rehabilitation requires the supportive structure of a 24-hour therapeutic environment.

To learn more about our continuum of care for substance use disorders, call us at 1-800-245-0011.

Physicians are on the medical staff of The BridgeWay Hospital but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of The BridgeWay Hospital. The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

Dr. Schay

Coronavirus Also Affects Minds That’s why we are available anytime from anywhere, offering all our services in the safest possible manner – from telehealth to in-person psychiatric testing with plexiglass screen and PPE

Call 877-778-1197

info@MethodistFamily.org

These are our favorite books for helping younger kids understand and communicate their feelings.

T

he Pulaski County Special School District celebrates another year of AVID (Advancement VIA Individual Determination), and recruitment is underway as we gear up for another successful year.

AVID increases student engagement while activating a deeper level of learning in the classroom. This initiative emphasizes rigorous coursework, relevance of instruction and relationships in both elementary and secondary schools. It also prepares every student with a mindset of college potential.

“Students, teachers, counselors, and administrators are recruiting in schools to enlist fifth and ninth grade students into the AVID family,” said Dr. Janice Warren, Assistant Superintendent for Equity and Pupil Services. “Student recruiters will emphasize AVID’s goals to improve study skills, organizational skills, and gain knowledge to prepare them for college.”

Teachers are also reinvigorated by having AVID in their classrooms. Teachers who participate in AVID professional learning begin to shift their belief about teaching and learning, allowing them to cultivate a growth mindset both for themselves and their students.

2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR

During the AVID recruitment process, middle school AVID students will visit elementary schools and high school AVID students will visit middle schools. During the school visits, AVID students discuss the benefits of AVID, showcase some of the work AVID students do throughout the school year and highlight their reasons for participating in AVID at each grade level. Academic instruction and tutorial support through AVID will be highlighted through the students’ presentations.

AVID strategies, such as reading and writing to learn, note-taking and time management skills, and working together, will be utilized for elementary students in grades 3-5. The next phase of implementation in PCSSD will expand these strategies to primary grades K-2 across the district. Eleventh graders are also in the next implementation phase. They will focus on moving these future leaders toward college success and beyond by strengthening writing skills, improving study and organization skills and visiting colleges and exploring potential careers.

If you want to learn more about AVID, please visit the PCSSD website and find the AVID section under the “Big Rocks.” You can also reach out to Dr. Janice Warren who is the District AVID coordinator at jwarren@pcssd.org or (501) 234-2015.

2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR

ABOUT PCSSD

REGISTER NOW

pcssd.org/register 501.234.2000

Pulaski County Special School District spans more than 600 square miles in central Arkansas and requires highly skilled and passionate personnel to adapt educational policies and personalization to 25 schools. Every school is accredited by the Arkansas State Board of Education. PCSSD has served schools across Pulaski County since July 1927.

PCSSD is committed to creating a nationally recognized school district that assures that all students achieve at their maximum potential through collaborative, supportive and continuous efforts of all stakeholders.

Meet the Parent:

ESPERANZA MASSANA-CRANE Born in Santa Tecla, El Salvador, Esperanza Massana-Crane came to Arkansas at 17 as a Harding University freshman. Since then, she has built an impressive career and a beautiful family while still finding time to help serve the community she now calls home.

Family has always been central to Massana-Crane’s life. Growing up in El Salvador, she learned a strong work ethic from her grandfather and a belief that she could do anything from her mother, grandmother and aunt.

After graduating and then earning a master’s degree in business administration, MassanaCrane traveled Central America for shoe company Nine West and then worked at advertising firm CJRW for seven years. In 2013, she became marketing director at the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, where she helps bring international business prospects to Arkansas. The multilingual Massana-Crane has also been on the boards of AR Kids Read and Girl Scouts; she joined the LR Sister Cities Commission last year.

Perhaps her most important roles to date, however, are as wife to Arkansas Film Commissioner Chris Crane and mother to Sebastian (21 months) — whom she calls “a chunk of love and determination” — and stepmom to Madison (27, who lives in Spain).

How do you balance work and family? Any apps, tools, services, prep work you’ve found to be a lifesaver?

To the extent that I am able, planning is very important. Being at the office all day makes it very difficult for me to get things done at home, so I decided to be smart in maximizing time. I can tell you three things that help me: 1. Maintaining a schedule. I NEVER thought I would be the mom that would try to stick to a schedule (snacks, naps, bath, bedtime, etc.), but keeping a schedule has helped us stay organized. 2. Bella’s Kitchen — my sister launched this company last year, and it has been a life saver! It’s a fresh and nutritious meal delivery service that allows me to purchase prepared meals for the little one. Also, smart services like Target pick-up or Whole Foods are game changers.

3. Being a team. My husband and I both take turns when it comes to responsibilities: He bathes Sebastian; I get him ready for bed. I make dinner; he plays with the little one, and so on. And yes, there are times when things can be incredibly hectic and chaotic, but we do our very best to be a team and support each other.

CHRISTOPHER, SEBASTIAN AND ESPERANZA LOVE SPENDING TIME TOGETHER OUTDOORS IN THEIR HILLCREST NEIGHBORHOOD. “WE LOVE GOING ON WALKS AND HIKES!” ENTHUSES ESPERANZA.

What are your favorite family activities?

We LOVE going on walks and hikes.

Since my son was little, we have enjoyed taking him on strolls in our charming Hillcrest neighborhood.

We also take advantage of walking at Two Rivers [Park] and Pinnacle

[Mountain State Park]. As our little one gets older, we plan to do more hiking. In fact, my husband gave me a pair of hiking shoes for Christmas so we can do more of that on the weekends.

Name three things that are helping your family get through these trying times.

1. Village Montessori. My son attends Village Montessori, and we LOVE the school. My heart rejoices when I see how happy he is to go into his classroom with his awesome teachers, Ms. Leigh Ann and Ms. Mary. 2. Family. As clichéd as it sounds, the support and love of family during these times is so important. My family in El Salvador and Austin have always been a motor for my life.

And even though we are not physically together, we support one another across the distance. Also, my father- and mother-in-law are an important support for me here. They come in the afternoons to spend time with Sebastian, and that is priceless to me. 3.

Most importantly, holding on to God. Always. We are going through historic times that are shaping our world and the way we do things. Yet amid all this change, I hold on to God, knowing that His love for us is constant and He is faithful to sustain us.

How do you recharge? What does your “me time” look like?

Since time is of the essence in this stage of life, it’s the little things that matter. For example, the latte that my husband makes for me first thing in the morning; a long, hot shower; watching the news; a series or attempting to watch a movie with my husband after the little one goes to sleep; a glass of wine; scrolling through Instagram late at night; and daydreaming that one day I will have my house in order (right, mamas?).

CHILD SERVICES 6601 WEST 12TH ST. LITTLE ROCK, AR 72204 ADULT SERVICES 1521 MERRILL DR. LITTLE ROCK, AR 72211

CORONAVIRUS ALSO AFFECTS MENTAL HEALTH

IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY

Call to schedule an appointment 501.666.8686

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU ANYTIME, DAY OR NIGHT Visit our website: www.thecentersar.com