THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Talking to Children about Coronavirus
Talking to Children about Coronavirus
There are so much misinformation that is spreading like wildfire about the corona virus that some adults and children are confused about how the virus is contracted and what preventive methods needs to be taken. I have spoken to some students and when asked, “What do you know about the coronavirus?” There are students who believe the world is coming to an end. They have even asked me, “Is this the Armageddon or Apocalypse?” They have experienced school closures, seen mass chaos at food stores on television or locally, and are being socially isolated from their peers. Their world has changed drastically in such a short period of time. So, what can we do to help them make sense of all this?
We can start by decreasing the level of anxiety by doing the following:
Talking to your child about the coronavirus will decrease the level of stress your child may be experiencing. Being informed with the correct information will help you through these uncertain times.
Suggested resources by the American School Counseling Association:
Child Mind Institute
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
What Kids Can Do: Short Video from Brainpop
https://www.brainpop.com/health/diseasesinjuriesandconditions/coronavirus/
SAMHSA
Coping with Stress During an Infectious Disease Outbreak
There are so much misinformation that is spreading like wildfire about the corona virus that some adults and children are confused about how the virus is contracted and what preventive methods needs to be taken. I have spoken to some students and when asked, “What do you know about the coronavirus?” There are students who believe the world is coming to an end. They have even asked me, “Is this the Armageddon or Apocalypse?” They have experienced school closures, seen mass chaos at food stores on television or locally, and are being socially isolated from their peers. Their world has changed drastically in such a short period of time. So, what can we do to help them make sense of all this?
We can start by decreasing the level of anxiety by doing the following:
- Monitor what children read and watch in the media or on television.
- Listen to their fears about what is happening in the world around them.
- Be willing to be honest by sharing information that is age appropriate for the child to comprehend.
- Develop activities at home that will divert their attention.
- Tell children what they can do to be safe and healthy.
- Assure them that you will help them stay safe.
Talking to your child about the coronavirus will decrease the level of stress your child may be experiencing. Being informed with the correct information will help you through these uncertain times.
Suggested resources by the American School Counseling Association:
Child Mind Institute
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
What Kids Can Do: Short Video from Brainpop
https://www.brainpop.com/health/diseasesinjuriesandconditions/coronavirus/
SAMHSA
Coping with Stress During an Infectious Disease Outbreak