More than likely, your children are hearing about COVID-19 from the TV, online, or from family members or other kids. Explaining a global pandemic to a child is not easy for anyone. However, you want to make sure that they’re receiving accurate information from a reliable source (you).
If you haven’t already, it may be time to discuss the coronavirus with your kids. Whether they’re asking questions or hearing COVID-19 myths, it’s important to provide reliable information to them. Regardless of your child’s age range, there is an appropriate way to have a discussion about the coronavirus.
Get on Their Age Level
Your young children aren’t likely to understand the statistics provided by the CDC. You’ll have to explain medical advice and the importance of them washing their hands as simply as possible in a way they can digest and understand what’s happening.
Just like adults wonder about going back to work, kids want to know about going back to school. The younger they are, the less likely they are to understand how potentially dangerous their school could be. There’s no need to go into excruciating detail about how the virus spreads to make people sick. Instead, use child-friendly books and videos to explain the importance of social distancing and handwashing. Your kids deserve to be informed just as much as you do.
Pro Tip: Set a good example for your kids to properly combat the coronavirus. Demonstrate proper handwashing, encourage the use of masks, and enforce social distancing rules.
Provide Open and Honest Communication
Mental health professionals will always recommend open communication in the family. The best way to keep people safe and stay healthy during this time is, to be honest with one another and to ourselves. Don’t be afraid to talk about these things with your children. They need to have an understanding of how people get sick and how they can keep themselves safe.
Additionally, keep track of your children’s mental health during this rough time. With limited outdoor playtime and extended separation from friends, your kids are likely struggling emotionally. And of course, the constant bad news from the TV and the internet won’t help. Keep your children informed without overwhelming them and make sure they feel safe. Maintaining good mental health is more important now than ever.
Be a Safe Place for Your Children
You want your children to feel safe no matter what. The coronavirus disease of 2019 has quickly turned into the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. This information is frightening, but your children should know that they are safe at home and in your care. Pay attention to how your kids respond to the situation and plan your talk with them effectively from there.
Find helpful resources for your kids here:
- 5 Tips Kids Need to Know about Covid-19
- Coronavirus Explained to Kids (by a superhero)
- Coronavirus Explained! (For Kids)
- Free Information Book Explaining the Coronavirus to Children
Conclusion
When you talk to your kids about coronavirus, be strong, and understand that it’s for educational purposes only. Your kids look up to you to be their safe place, which is what you want them to feel at all times.
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