We’re eating more meals together than we ever have before. We are getting to know our neighbors better. We see our child or children more hours of the day, and many of us are fortunate enough to hear the sounds of toys and giggles filling our homes. Ok, while all of these facts are true (and my son is adorable on Zoom meetings), we are also experiencing tough moments, tantrums, and, “Mommy, do you have to go back? Don’t you want to stay with me?” None of this is fair to us as adults, and it certainly isn’t fair to our kids.

In addition to my job as program director at NCFP, I am the mom of a 2-year-old with another little one on the way this summer. While balancing caring for our son with two full-time jobs is a challenge, it’s also a privilege.

I have had inspiring opportunities to learn and work with kids from giving families and nonprofits or community foundations who are passionate about philanthropy and enacting social change. When presented with challenges, youth are resilient and innovative, and often eager to help others. While it’s difficult to find time to discuss values or engage in philanthropy as a family, discussing COVID-19—and its disproportionate and broad sweeping impact—and the value of philanthropy can be a meaningful way to connect with your kids. Spending time with youth around ways to alleviate suffering will certainly give them agency at a time when children are often feeling a lack of control. And, it may give you valuable time for reflection amid these very uncertain times.

Below are some resources that NCFP has gathered for families during this time. They include tools and tips for talking to your kids about COVID-19 and are centered on resources about grantmaking. Please read these ahead of using them to ensure they align with how your family and community are staying safe around physical or social distancing.

Read the full article about learning to work with kids from giving families during COVID-19 by Katie Scott at the National Center for Family Philanthropy.