Mental Health Tips for Parents: Ways to Discuss the Coronavirus Outbreak with Your Children

With the continuing closure of restaurants, schools, and businesses; adapting to the coronavirus is hard as an adult. But children may not understand why they cannot go to school, eat certain foods, or play with friends outside. According to the Child Mind Institute parents should not be afraid to discuss the coronavirus with their children. It is important to listen to your child’s concerns and questions. Here are 4 tips parents can use to discuss the coronavirus with their children. 

  1. Find out what your child already knows. This gives you a chance to find out if they’re hearing incorrect information. KidsHealth says to ask age appropriate questions. For example, for younger children, you could say, "Have you heard grownups talking about a new sickness that's going around?"The CDC states that parents should provide information that is honest and accurate, but make sure it is suited for the age and developmental level of the child. 

  2. Emphasize things your family can do to reduce germs and protect others. Talk to them about hand washing and social distancing. PBS Kids says that you can make these activities fun by making them into games. For example, a lot of kids cough or sneeze into their hands, so tell them to “catch it” in their elbow or a tissue. “Catch that cough!”

  3. Lastly, reassure them that they are safe. Make sure they know what you and other people are doing to keep others safe. Children are very intuitive on what you are feeling, so try to stay calm when talking to your children.

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