SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES IMPACTED BY COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS

Mother with daughter

Suggestions:

    • Provide facts to your child in a developmentally appropriate way.  This will eliminate false information and rumors spread by their friends.
    • Don't volunteer too much information. Rather, answer your child's questions and provide time and space for them to process your responses.
      • One of the best things parents can do for worried kids is find out what they've heard, then correct any misinformation.
    • Allow your child to talk about their feelings and thoughts.
      • Offer a calm, non-judgemental, and validating demeanor.
    • Reassure them of their safety by highlighting the precautions you are taking and how they can help you to empower them.
      • Some examples include: "I am here to protect you from getting sick.  What we can do is wash our hands, sneeze info our elbows, and avoid touching our faces.
    • Steer them away from frightening fantasies and keep as normal a routine as possible.