How To Help Children Cope With Changes During Pandemic
Children take what they could see from the adults surrounding them. If parents and other family members deal with the pandemic confidently and calmly, they could give the best care for their children. Parents may be more comforting to others around them if they are well prepared. Below are some other tips you can follow on how you can help your children;
Keep Explanations Age-Appropriate
- Elementary school children: Provide brief and simple information that balances facts about the pandemic. Give as well an appropriate comfort that adults are there to help them keep healthy and to take care of them if they get sick. You can give them a sample of steps that people make every day to stop germs and stay healthy such as hand hygiene.
- Early middle school children: These are often extra vocal in asking questions about what will happen if the virus spreads in their community or whether they indeed are safe. They might need assistance in separating reality from rumors. You can discuss the national and community leaders that they are doing their best to prevent it from spreading.
- Upper middle school students: Issues could be discussed in more complexity. Talk about appropriate sources of coronavirus facts. Provide accurate and factual information about the current status of the pandemic. Engage them in decision-making about the plans of the family and help them with household chores.
Stay Connected To School
- Recognize additional resources. Know if your district or school is providing additional resources such as a tablet or laptop.
- Locate learning resources and know your school’s capacity to conduct virtual learning experiences. Take benefit of the several companies and online platforms at this time offering free learning opportunities.
- Find out how the school is communicating with students and families. Make sure to read any communications you receive. Check with your children as they may be receiving information directly. Wherein, it could be helpful for you to know.
- Connect with the staff of your child’s school. Reach out to the teacher of your child and other staff if you have concerns about their school activities.
Know The Symptoms
The symptoms of the Coronavirus Disease are;
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms appear within 14 days after being exposed to the virus. For some people, the symptoms are the same as if you are having a cold.
Basic Hygiene and Healthy Lifestyle
- Encourage your child to practice simple steps to prevent the virus such as the washing of hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Compliment your child when they use tissue for coughing or sneezing. Teach them as well the importance of throwing away used tissues after using them.
- Tell them also that handshaking, hugs, and kisses are limited to immediate family members for now.
- Offer guidance on children so that they can do prevent infection and could benefit them self-control which lessens their anxiety.
- Tell your child to have a well-balanced meal, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep. These will help them improve their immune system and help them fight off infections.