COVID-19 is the talk of the entire world right now. There is so much information coming in from so many different sources and many adults have a hard time processing it all.
With so much going on, it can be easy to forget about how the children in our lives are feeling about the current events. The past few days have been a whirlwind of emotions. I have been telling Riley to wash her hands literally every five minutes and I am sure she was beginning to think that I am crazy.
My husband and I have been discussing how we would have a conversation with our daughter about COVID-19 because we are still trying to process and understand it all, but today she asked us about it. We didn’t put the subject of COVID-19 off any longer, we decided to talk to her about what is going on.
We explained it to her in a way that she was able to understand, and also make her feel safe and calm. I wanted to share some tips on how we had a conversation with our daughter about COVID-19.
Get Credible Information About COVID-19
The best thing you can do for your child is to gather correct information from only credible sources. You have to prepare yourself for the questions that your child may ask and you want to have accurate and factual information. There are so many people sharing information online, it can be hard to decipher what is true. My advice would be to cross-reference with at least 3 sources before you consider it a fact. Even then, always go with your own common sense and gut feeling.
Listen To Your Child
Assessing what your child knows about COVID-19 is crucial to the direction and success of the conversation with your child. They may have heard information from school or their friends. This is the time to dispel any myths or misinformation. You are your child’s first teacher.
Turn Off The TV
Allowing your child to consume information alone on TV can be very harmful to your child. Any news or programming should be monitored and done in moderation so there is not an information overload, or a trigger of fear and anxiety.
Be Reassuring
Let your child know that their feelings matter. Let them know that it is ok to feel the way that they feel. Reassure them that things will be ok. Be honest with your children.
Have Fun
It can be easy to let COVID-19 consume your daily thoughts. Get outside and get some fresh air. Play board games, draw or paint with your kids. We found this really cool art subscription box. Whatever makes them happy. Our little people sometimes can’t explain how they feel, I know I need to get my mind off things too. A little extra fun is just what we all need.
It’s been a crazy past few days but I am glad to be at home with my family creating memories. We will get through this. Take care of yourselves.
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