Worrying comes with being a mom. And now with coronavirus, well, it can be tough not to let anxiety consume you, especially after you’ve put on a brave face for your kids all day. It can even feel impossible wrap your head around what to focus that concern on—elderly parents’ health, the economy, kids’ physical and mental health, people in need who may not have access to basic necessities like food or healthcare…But did you know that studies have shown helping others can make us less depressed, less anxious, and even physically healthy (in the form of lower blood pressure and boosted immunity)? Here are some simple ways to help both strangers and loved ones today. Plus, how some of the moms across our network are giving back to their own communities and inspiring us:
- Start a Food Drive. Give Healthy is a simple-to-use platform that Greenwich Moms used to raise almost $1,000 so far for its local food bank. You can also use social media to promote existing food drives like Stamford Moms.
- Order Takeout from Local Restaurants (if they’ve closed for dine-in). Newtown Moms and other sites have started helpful lists of places doing curbside pickup or delivery.
- Don’t Hoard Toilet Paper and Other Supplies. The CDC recommends having several weeks (not months) of supplies on hand. In short, if everyone takes all the toilet paper, basic groceries, diapers, and more, those who really need them (and can’t afford to stock up ahead of time) won’t have access to any. Even worse, stocking up on masks that have not been proven to be effective except in healthcare settings won’t be available to the healthcare workers helping us recover from illness.
- Support Small Businesses. Some are offering virtual services and activities (Chatham Summit Moms created a list for their community); you can also simply buy gift cards to be used at a later time.
- Call or Facetime Someone. Single friends in quarantine, extroverts, elderly…if there is anyone in your life who you think may be frightened or lonely, now is the time to reach out.
- Donate Money. There is no shortage of local and national causes and charities that need your help during this time. In your community, consider those who may already be vulnerable (for instance for those in poverty or people who may be at risk for domestic violence).
- Sew Medical Masks. Hospitals around the control are experiencing shortages. If you know how to sew, there are many tutorials online.
- Don’t Induce Panic. Panic is what leads people to stockpile supplies (leaving them unavailable for those who need them). Consider the effect of what you post on social media will have on those who read it—and always make sure you’re posting facts that are from reputable sources.
- Connect Your Friends. Be the one to suggest bringing your book club or girls’ night out onto Zoom. Then do the same for your kids’ playdates. And offer your help to any friends who may not be able to help themselves (for instance, someone with a preexisting condition that doesn’t feel comfortable shopping for food).
- PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND STAY HOME IF REQUIRED. Follow the guidelines set out by the CDC and your local health authorities—and urge family and friends to do the same, for their sake and everyone’s.
Spring Must Haves
Anyone else *more* than ready to swap winter coats and sweaters for spring dresses and tops? We asked designer Katie Fong Biglin, for her go-to picks for the season. All of them are mom-friendly (read: easy to style) and many of them are perfect for pregnancy and...
Meet a Mom: Richmond Native and Local Business Owner of Any Lab Test Now
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town? I am from Richmond, VA. I’ve lived here all my life! Tell us about your Child(ren) and Age(s) I am a mother of identical twin girls! They are nine years old in the 3rd grade What’s your favorite...
Get Better Sleep & Skin with SAINT JANE
Sleep and skincare are two things that have become more important to many of us since becoming moms. Whether you’re waking up with babies, waiting up for teenagers, or simply burning the candle at both ends, good sleep is priceless. Skincare, too, becomes more...
Meet a Dad: Paralympic Snowboarder Noah Elliott
The Beijing 2022 Paralympics ran from March 4 to 13, 2022, and one of the athletes we followed was Noah Elliott. Four years ago in Pyeongchang South Korea, this Paralympic Snowboarder won the gold medal in the banked slalom event and a bronze medal in snowboard cross....
Easy Fresh Spring Salad
With the weather warming up and schedules getting busier, we're all about throwing together quick salads—and this spring version from Rachael Mahoney of Kinney Lane, a Greenwich, CT-based healthy prepared meal delivery business, is at the top of our list. "This salad...
Peeps Rice Krispies Treats
This story originally appeared on our sister site, Sound Shore Moms. If you've been following for a little bit, you've probably realized that I really like a good theme, especially when celebrating holidays. I came across these Peep Rice Krispies Treats on instagram...
Top 10 Family Vacation Ideas for 2022
Top 10 Family Vacations Ideas for 2022! Traveling as a family is one of the most fun and enriching things you can do with your children. From beach vacations to cultural journeys to rustic adventures, there are so many wonderful options for every interest and...
Lemon Yogurt Cake
This Lemon Yogurt Cake from The Local Moms Network Contributor Kathleen "Kat" Ashmore just feels like Spring to us! Perfect for Easter or any Spring soiree, it can be made gluten-free and topped with either a lemon glaze or more decadent buttercream,...
COVID-19 Vaccine & Kids Ages 5 to 11: Answers to Your Questions
Caleb, age 8, after getting his first COVID-19 shot in Albany, NY With the recent approval of the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11, millions of parents nationwide have already vaccinated their kids—and millions more are weighing the decision. As parents, we always...
Organize Your Kids’ Toys in 5 Easy Steps!
A version of this story originally ran on Home with the Harrisons, and was written by Lindsey Harrison of New Canaan-Darien Moms. Credit: Donna Dolan With the holidays coming up, that means more crafts, artwork, gifts….and clutter. In order to start 2022 as...