My first blog - for my students during the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic

One week into the Coronavirus pandemic and I am searching for ways to engage my students which are at home.

I wanted first to share what I have been up to for the last week since the pandemic began - First, for those who know me, I am the type of person that needs to keep busy, so the day schools announced we would be closed for at least 3 weeks, I started a list, things I wanted to fill my time doing: clean out the attic, alter some clothes, paint the bathroom cabinet, make clothes, make tool holders for ceramics students....and I'm sure I had a few other things on the list that I can't remember anymore.

Realistically, I knew I wasn't touching the attic. That's a terribly boring job and one not likely to keep make me happy. So, I narrowed my list to things that challenged my mind and brought me contentment - sewing and painting. The second day of the pandemic, I hit the paint and fabric stores to fill my supply lists. I was ready to tackle my projects. In the day that followed, I ripped apart the bathroom vanity stripping it of all doors and hardware. I was on my way to a newly painted bathroom cabinet. Then I cut out and made a simple linen shirt for my daughter.

During my projects I kept tabs of the news, as everyday and every hour seemed to change - no school for 3 weeks, social distancing, closed businesses, how to keep yourself safe, Covid-19 victims in our community, lack of medical supplies, canceled spring vacation plans, canceled everything, communication with school administrators about a plan to communicate with students! I can't believe how much has happened in just a little more than a week.

So, what will I say to my students on Wednesday - Mostly, I just want them to know I care and wish them well, let them know I miss them daily, I look forward to seeing them soon.

One observation that has struck me since we have been at home is how much I've noticed how art has played a role in helping to ease the stress over the week - all sorts of art museums from all over the world are on line posting virtual tours, musicians have posted daily songs and concerts. And, the art memes - they keep us laughing and a little more grounded than without them. Creative people are amazing at helping us to remember that we are human and we need happiness and art every day.

So, for my students, make art! That's it, just make something! You could challenge yourself to learn something new, practice a skill (drawing, painting or paint your bathroom cabinet). No one cares if it is perfect as long as it makes you happy. For me, it is in the creating that gives me happiness.

What will you make today?!

#bloggingtips #WixBlog