Parenting is always complicated, but the COVID-19 lockdown has brought with it several new layers.
Here’s how to talk to children about coronavirus.
Through her tears, she yelled, Do they even know how many kids theyre letting down?
I had taken the wrong tack.
Parenting is always complicated, but the COVID-19 lockdown has brought with it several new layers.
What should we tell them about the virus?
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How can we help them manage what have to be a range of big emotions during this unprecedented moment?
How should I talk to my children about coronavirus?
To make matters worse during this moment, the prefrontal cortex becomes underactive in times of stress.
So even kids who can usually be counted on to get schoolwork done may be struggling.
This response may become over-sensitized such that the amygdala creates false alarms.
In particular, children are quite adept at observing the nonverbal cues of their parents.
So if youre anxious, it is highly likely your child perceives that anxiety as well.
This creates trust between parents and children that is essential to a childs sense of safety.
Its also important to keep your discussions age appropriate.
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Of course, every child is different, so following their cues is key.
What are they worried about?
When you talk to you children, ask what have they heard about the coronavirus.
What would like they to know?
Be sure to answer questions directly and refrain from providing unnecessary details that might cause undue anxiety.
Knowing what to expect can help counter the uncertainty, says Dr. Kletter.
Having a regular sleep schedule is also important to maintain a sense of well-being.
Injecting movement into some of those daily rituals is also important.
Becoming much more sedentary can significantly impact mood, especially in adolescents, says Dr. Kletter.
verify to have some exercise each day as well as activities that bring pleasure and value.
Butquality matters more than quantity, so make the best of the time you have.
The one thing I did right was just being with her, unhurried and undistracted.
Hopefully that softened the blow.
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