How to Talk to Young Children About Covid-19

Even though I do not have kids of my own, I know for a fact that there are many kids who are confused and scared about the certain living conditions we are facing.

So… How do we talk to kids about the Corona Virus?

 

Kids may need more help finding answers to their questions in the ...

 

>Ask children what they know already about the Corona Virus.

Kids are a lot smarter than many give them credit for. Also, depending on what age the child is, they can get a lot of information off of the internet or through their friends. It is so important to check and see where their information is coming from and how accurate it is. As a parent or guardian, good sources that are reputable to show children could be through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or KidsHealth.

What is accuracy? - Quora

The best thing to do for your child is to see where the child is and what they know, and what they may need during this time. Offer your comfort and most importantly, honesty.

>Check in with kids often.

This is a time where many people are having a struggle with maintaining good mental health. Kids are the same. Have conversations often to see how children are doing. There most definitely will be a lot of different emotions during this time, but it’s important to make sure kids are staying healthy, both physically and emotionally.

>Encourage children to ask questions and to communicate how they are feeling often.

There is no such thing as a stupid question. These are unique times and there will be many changes in each person’s life.

>Teach children ways in which they can prevent the spread of germs.

Talk about things such as social distancing when taking out the trash if you live in a crowded neighborhood, washing hands frequently, wearing a mask in public areas, and things such as coughing into their arms if they need to do so.

 

Good Sources for Families:

Coronavirus (COVID-19): How to Talk to Your Child

Your kids are hearing about coronavirus (COVID-19). You want to make sure they get reliable information – and you want them to hear it from you. Here’s how to talk about it. Ask questions geared to your child’s age level. For older kids, you might ask, “What are you hearing about coronavirus?

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Remain calm and reassuring. Remember that children will react to both what you say and how you say it. They will pick up cues from the conversations you have with them and with others. Make yourself available to listen and to talk. Make time to talk.