PREPARE FOR THE BEST
Part One of how to get the most out of the COVID-19 Lockdown
As we head into the first weekend of Watch Groups and Church@Home, we have put together the best way to get the most out of this crazy season we find ourselves in. Here below is how to best prepare:
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PREPARE
A. Prepare your hands
We encourage you to take some time to understand proper preventative measures to avoid spreading the virus. Here are some of the basic measures:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
- Be friendly and greet others with smiles and waves instead of handshakes or hugs.
B. Prepare your hearts
“Think social distancing but not social disconnecting”
Not gathering together like we are used to on Sundays does not mean an absence of community. Social distancing may be necessary at this time, but we want to remain socially connected.
“See this as an opportunity for the Gospel not just opposition against the Gospel”
Think not only what’s best for your family, but what is best for your community. Consider who is vulnerable in your sphere of influence. We have the opportunity to experience God and community in a new way and to bring hope to others.
C. Prepare your homes
With schools and businesses shutting down for at least the next few weeks, having kids and family at home for extended periods (especially in a somewhat of a lockdown environment) could become a massive sense of frustration, getting on one another’s nerves and a stress point of note.
With that said, have a clear family game-plan of how each day will work, having different zones in the home and hours in the day for work and play. Routine is your family’s best friend!
HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR KIDS:
Here are some learning resources to help with having kids at home during this time:
*Scholastic has created a free learn-from-home site with 20+ days of learning and activities.
https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html
*Pretend to travel the world. Go on a virtual tour of these 12 famous museums.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
*Everything from preschool activities to 12th grade is here!
https://allinonehomeschool.com/
*List of thinking games by grade:
https://allinonehomeschool.com/thinking/
*More awesome free learning websites:
https://www.storylineonline.net/
https://www.highlightskids.com/
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/
https://www.coolmath4kids.com/
https://www.uniteforliteracy.com/
http://www.literactive.com/Home/index.asp
https://www.e-learningforkids.org/
Also, prepare your homes so that you and your family can be generous and caring at this time towards those who are vulnerable and in need. This is a great opportunity to clear out cupboards with your kids, putting parcels to give away. This is a time not for the church to go into hiding but to have a response ready for those who are in need of it.
With a little preparation, these trying times can be opportunities for real growth and impact.
Blog written by Gabe Phillips
Gabe and Fiona lead the Life Changers Milnerton and City congregations