Tips and Resources for Children and Parents During COVID-19

Here are a few tips to help parents and caregivers cope with changes of their normal routines.

Be aware of what your children see and hear on television, the radio and online.

Children often see and hear more than parents and caregivers realize. It is important to know what your child has seen or heard about COVID-19 so that you can discuss any worries or misinformation.

Talk with children about COVID-19

As news about the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues, children may have questions for parents and caregivers about the disease. Especially as normal routines change, children may display signs of worry about themselves, their families, and their friends. Certain words and practices can help children cope with their feelings and help guide discussions. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has put together a resource document to help parents and caregivers talk with their children about COVID-19.

Stay calm

Children react to what you say and how you say it. They “absorb” what is said to others and pick up on nonverbal body language. The calmer you seem, the more relaxed your child will be, which helps children better understand the information they are told.

Parent self-care

Many parents, who are working from home, may be trying to manage multiple work schedules as well as their child’s online school expectation. It is a lot. Above all else, try not to stretch yourself too thin. Be gentle with yourself and with each other. We will all need to let go of some expectations of normal to accommodate this new temporary reality.   

We must also find time to support our own mental well-being in some way. Mental health practices are not a luxury, especially now. We do not do our best work when we are overstressed, and it can impact our health as well as our child’s

Make time to listen to your children

It is important to make time to talk with children when they are worried. They need to know they can express their feelings and ask questions, and that you can take the time to answer their questions.

Maintain or implement routines

Routines are important for children, especially when there is increased uncertainty and stress. As school and home routines are disrupted, children may have trouble regulating their emotions and behaviors. Try to maintain basic daily routines as you normally would, such as getting ready for the day and bedtime schedules. If you have school-age children, create a basic loose structure for the day and week.