By now, your children must have heard a lot about the coronavirus, whether it’s from a snippet of a news briefing or other kids at school. But children might find it difficult to understand what they are seeing on TV or hear from other people – so they can be particularly vulnerable to feelings of anxiety, stress, and sadness. According to Preschool La Puente, CA teachers having an open, supportive discussion with your children can help them understand, cope and even make a positive contribution to others.

Understand what they already know :

While having a conversation on coronavirus, first try to understand what your kids already know about it. Their prior knowledge about COVID-19 will help you to respond accordingly. If you find your children are worried about the current situation, try to reassure them and make them feel safe. Stay calm and make them understand that this is temporary, and everything will be fine. If your kids are very young and have not already heard much about the outbreak, you may not need to race the issue, but you can take the opportunity to reinforce the good hygiene practices without introducing new fears.

Give appropriate information :

Children should also know the correct information about what is going on in the world right now, so give them the correct information as much as possible. But it is your responsibility to keep them safe from anxiety and stress. Preschool La Puente, CA teachers suggest using age-appropriate language, follow their reactions and be honest and sensitive to their level of anxiety while explaining the situation to them.

Talk about preventive measures :

While having a conversation about the coronavirus outbreak, please discuss the importance of following the preventive measures. Encourage them to wash their hands properly with soap and use sanitizer. You can also show them how to cover their mouth while coughing or sneezing. Talk to them about the other preventive measures and encourage them to follow those.

Monitor television weaving and social media :

Try to limit their television viewing or access to information on the internet or through social media. Speak to them that they may come across rumors or false stories about coronavirus. Instead of watching television, motivate your child to play some games or other interesting activities.

Know the symptoms of COVID-19 :

According to the teachers, parents should act responsibly to let their children know the symptoms of COVID-19. Explain to them that its best not to get too close to people who have those symptoms and ask them to tell you if they start feeling like having a fever, cough or difficulty in breathing.

Helping each other :

Children need to know that people are helping and caring for each other with acts of humanity and generosity. Share stories of health workers, scientists and many other people who are working nonstop to prevent the outbreak of the virus and keep the community safe. Children will feel safe to know that compassionate people are taking action and they will also feel motivated to eradicate the virus by following the safety guidelines and keeping them safe.

To wrap up your conversation, try to understand their anxiety level by watching their body language and facial expressions. Remind your children that whatever the situation is, you love them and care for them.