It feels like the only thing we’re talking about these days is the novel coronavirus and COVID-19.
Obviously, though,
The pandemic creates a lot of uncertainty and anxiety, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and fear not only in adults but also in children.
As a parent, you are probably wondering what is the best way to talk about COVID-19 with your children..
…and most importantly, how to help them cope with stress and worries during this difficult time.
But worry not, we got you covered!
Here are some tips and tricks that can help your children cope with their stress during this crisis:
Let’s get started Mommies and Daddies..
How To Help My Kids Cope With The Coronavirus Pandemic?
- Encourage them to talk about their feelings
Each child expresses his emotions in his own way.
Most importantly, based on his age!
For some, it can be triggered during a creative activity, such as playing or drawing.
That’s said,
…being available and responsive when children have questions, show concern, or have strong feelings is very important.
- Be honest.
Tell them the truth as simply as possible, without going overboard or speculating about what might or might not happen in the future.
Don’t give more details than your child asks for.
For example, if they ask about the closure of their schools, answer them but only come back to the subject if they are the ones talking about it.
- Be calm
Children react to what you say and the way you say it..
Not surprising..
If you are anxious or panicked they are sure to feel it. When you talk to them, be calm, caring, and reassuring.
Being calm helps to show them that you can handle what is going on and that you will do whatever you can to keep them safe.
- Be precise
If your kids have heard of the virus on the news or social media, tell them that some stories are circulating the Internet about COVID-19 that are based on rumors and inaccurate information.
Focus on the facts and what you are doing to stay safe and healthy.
It’s okay if you can’t answer everything..
… being available for your child is what matters!!
You can tell them that even if you don’t know all the answers just yet when you learn more, you will share everything with them.
You can look for information on reliable sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), for the most recent scientific data on the disease.
Keep in mind, though,
And remember that the information you provide to your children should be appropriate for their age and level of development.
- Stick to a routine
Follow regular rituals and schedules as much as possible…
..or encourage new ones, alternating learning with play or other age-appropriate activities.
This is especially important if your child’s school or daycare is closed.
- Monitor their media usage
Don’t let them watch, read, or listen to the news too much, including on social media.
Too much information on the subject is anxiety-provoking.
- Be open to dialogue
Make time for your children.
Let them know they can turn to you if they have any questions.
Above all…
Make sure to make your answers reliable as much as possible..
- Rely on your judgment
Not all children have the same emotional baggage to deal with this potentially frightening news.
No one knows your child better than you do..
…and no one knows better than you how they will react or how best to approach the subject with them.
- Teach children how to reduce the spread of germs
For example, washing your hands frequently, sanitizing the house, and respecting social distancing.
Remind them to stay away from people who cough, sneeze, or are sick.
The feeling of having a role to play can lessen their feeling of helplessness in the face of this overwhelming situation.
- Look for signs of stress in your kids
Not only do children react to stress in different ways, but when they are worried or anxious, they do not necessarily realize it.
Keep this in mind all the time.. And observe their behaviors!
You may notice changes in their behavior: like mood swings, need to stick to you, new or recurring fears (fear of the dark, fear of being alone), sleep disturbance, or the appearance of nightmares or nocturnal enuresis
Besides,
..they may also present with physical symptoms, such as loss of appetite, headaches and stomach aches, or vague stomach pains.
Talk to your children as soon as you see signs of anxiety in them. Tell them it’s okay to express their feelings and ask questions.
We hope that these tips can help you cope with the new norms and make your kids feel good as much as possible.
To know how to protect your kids from the psychological effect of the coronavirus click here
Dema JS is the founder of newbabysmell.com and a mother of two little kids.
Dema had her MBA from St. John’s University- NYC in dual concentrations: Executive Management and Marketing Management.
Contact: Please email [email protected] or go to newbabysmell.com
