The last several weeks have turned our lives upside down. Normal routines of work, school, sports and social activities have come to a halt. Not to mention the anxiety that the concern for the health and safety of our loved ones brings. All this change is difficult for us to process as adults, How do we speak about this with our kids? Listed below are some suggestions collected from mental health and medical professionals on how to address these concerns with your children.
- For the benefit of the entire family, limit your news consumption. Stay informed to be safe but set boundaries for yourself. Information overload in the current circumstances can lead to anxiety. You can access the latest CDC recommendations here.
- Before starting this conversation with your child, check in with yourself. Make sure you are in a calm, centered state.
- Don’t be afraid to talk about the coronavirus but be developmentally appropriate. Keep information on a need to know basis. Remember the goal of the conversation is to dispel fears without creating anxiety.
- Allow your child to lead the conversation. Take your cues from them. Invite them to share what they know about the situation. Be prepared to answer questions without giving too much information and emphasize what you are doing to stay safe. Remember it’s ok to tell your child you don’t have all the answers.
- Check in with your child periodically. When emotions spill over, remind yourself and your child that it is ok to feel anxious, scared, angry or sad and discuss how your child is feeling in a calm manner.
- Be aware of signs of anxiety for yourself and your child. If you are anxious, that can affect your child. Behavioral and emotional changes caused by anxiety can include irritability and moodiness, tantrums or trouble sleeping. Physical symptoms can include headaches and stomach aches.
- Discuss activities you think can help your family cope during this time. Remember to maintain structure and have fun. You may want to consider some of the following activities.
- Physical activity indoors: exercise, yoga, dance parties, Go Noodle
- Outdoor activities (while practicing social distancing): walks, hikes, bike rides, gardening, outdoor games
- Evening family time: movie nights, game nights
- Ways to maintain connection with family and friends: virtual playdates, pen pals etc. Get creative!