In times of fear, it feels easier to jump right to anger. It feels louder and more deliberate and thus more productive. Yelling, and taking, being snide, rude, inconsiderate—in the moment bring about a surge of accomplishment.

Look at me, I did something in this time of crisis!

Except, the lasting implications of our actions matter.

Our kids are watching. And they are listening.

It is not a surprise that our children can sense our every emotion, as they are an extension of us. When our whole body vibrates with uncertainty, their little eyes look to us for reassurance. If we are unsure ourselves, imagine how scary the world is for them right now.

Take a moment right here to just breathe. Let’s practice breathing together. When everything feels out of control, sometimes the only thing we can control are our breaths.

Mister Rodgers said, “When I was a [child] and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”