With the pervasive news about COVID-19 it is unavoidable that your children will continue to hear about it and more than likely have questions and anxiety. Because of the current situation, parents need to be prepared to answer questions from their kids. The following tips will help you have discussions that are informative while being reassuring.
Be open to the discussion about coronavirus
Children can’t help but be aware of the virus with shutdowns, online news, and people in masks. Don’t try to avoid talking about the pandemic because not speaking about it can cause more stress. The purpose of the discussion is to pass on facts that reassure the child in an open and honest format. As the crisis continues, keep having discussions to keep them informed.
Consider the age of your children
Keep in mind the age of the child when answering questions. Be careful not to overwhelm them with too much information. Remember that you don’t need to have all the answers. What is important is to be there for your children. Also, consider how much screen time is appropriate for your child to limit access to disturbing information.
Let your child lead the conversation
By letting your kids tell you what they have heard and the questions they have, you convey a sense of control in an uncertain situation. Be ready to answer questions with the goal of not reinforcing frightening and untrue stories.
Focus on safety and routine
Let your kids know the safety precautions that you are taking for their well-being and everyone in the home. These guidelines will help them know what to do to keep themselves safe. With school shutdowns and restrictions in get-togethers with friends, a sense of some routine is essential.
Approach it as you would summer vacation. Maintain structure through scheduled activities, lessons, mealtimes and bedtimes. Also, remind them that this is a temporary situation and you will all be fine.
It is up to you to set the behavior
Now more than ever, your child relies on you for guidance and comfort. Therefore, your behavior needs to be the model for them to follow. Wash your hands, maintain social distancing, and present an attitude of calm and control. These actions will help them to understand what they need to do and how they should react to these unprecedented times.
Heaven’s Elect Christian Learning Center and Daycare is a Non-denominational Christian childcare center fully licensed by the state of Michigan. Our Midland daycare center has been serving the community since 2000. Please contact us at heavenselect.com.