It is a scary time for us all, and for our little ones it can be especially overwhelming. We want to make sure that our kids stay and feel safe. Here are some ways you can talk to your children about COVID-19 (and other scary-real-world issues).
Encourage Questions and Free Thought
Your little ones are going to have MANY questions. It may seem overwhelming, but that curiosity is a good thing, and a skill that they will need in order to grow up to be a well-informed adult.
- Ask them if they have any questions
- Answer questions as honestly as you can
- Help or encourage them research (if they are old enough)
- Let them journal or draw about how they are feeling/thinking about what is going on
- Let them know when you don’t have the answer
Use This as an Opportunity to Teach
We know that it is difficult to see the silver-lining these days, but it can also be a great teachable-moment. Use your time together to learn about healthy habits and good hygiene. It will make your child feel more in-control of a situation that they (and all of us) may feel helpless in.
- Go over new and important vocabulary they are probably coming across — Check out our free downloadable here.
- Teach them how to wash their hands (there are great songs that can help! We love the ‘Wash Your Hands’ song by Cocomelon on Youtube)
- Let them help you clean/sanitize by giving them a clean rag and explain to them why it is important
- Teach them how to cover their mouth and nose when they sneeze or cough
Reassure Them
Children are more perceptive than we think. They may be feeling a lot of the anxiety and fear around them, even if we try our best to turn off the news and limit conversations. It is important to let them know that they will be okay and so will the people they love!
- Tell them what you’re doing to keep the family safe
- Let them know that this will pass
- Use a calm voice when you are talking to them about COVID-19
- Stay positive
- Tell them you love them
Breathing and Movement
Encouraging breathing and movement is a great way to lessen anxiety for both you and your little one. It is also a great way to burn off all of that pent-up energy you may have from staying in. Here are some ideas:
- Go for a walk and enjoy some fresh air (but please avoid the playground!)
- Take advantage of guided movement and breathing apps and online platforms. Here are some of our favorites:
- GoNoodle on YouTube
- Cosmic Kids Yoga on YouTube
- NinjaFocus Meditation App
- Super Stretch Yoga App
Mommies of J.E.N. 