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Parent Resources

1. A conversation to have with your student this week: In the first Zoom, each student will be invited to make a list of things they are currently feeling anxious about. Ask your kid if they’re up for talking through their list with you. In your conversations with your teen, aim to communicate openness and empathy while trying not to judge or solve problems.  Check out session 1 of Parenting podcast: “Faith in an Anxious World”   

2. Something you can do together as a family: Students are exploring the Ignatian Prayer of Examen as a tool to help center themselves and seek God when life feels anxious. We’re calling it the “Daily Replay." You can encourage your student to grow in this practice by walking through these prayer steps together, asking how the practice is helpful or challenging, or using the steps to grow in your own practice of prayer. 

Here are the five simple steps:

1. Become aware of God’s presence. Find a quiet place, away from distractions. Take several moments to breathe, relax, and invite God to be present with you.
2. Review the day with gratitude. What are the good things that have happened today? What can I give thanks for?
3. Pay attention to your emotions. What moments throughout my day have been difficult or tense? Where is God at work in the midst of my anxious moments? What might God (or anxiety) be trying to tell me?
4. Forgive and ask for forgiveness. Who am I angry or frustrated with? Are there things I can forgive and let go in order to have peace? What would I like to be forgiven for?
5. Look toward tomorrow. How can tomorrow be different? What would I like to ask God to help me with?