Covid and Parenting: Talking About The Virus

Be Open And Listen

Allow your child to talk freely Ask them open questions and find out how much they already know.

Be Honest

Always answer their questions truthfully. Think about how old your child is and how muchthey can understand.

Be Supportive

Your child may be scared or confused. Give them the opportunity to share how they feel and let them know you are there for them.

It’s OK Not To Know The Answers

It is fine to say, “We don’t know, but we are working on it; or we don’t know, ‘but we think’.” Use this an a chance to learn something new with your child.

No Judgement

Explain that COVID-19 has nothing to do with the way someone looks, where they are from, or what language they speak. Help them understand that we can be compassionate to those who are sick and those who are caring for them.

Look for stories of people who are working to stop the outbreak and are caring for sick people.

End On a Good Note

Check to see if your child is okay. Remind them that you care and that they can talk to you anytime. Then do something fun together!

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In these exceptional times, even though we all may find ourselves cooped up inside, everyone’s experience may be different. For some, you may be home alone and dealing with the sense of isolation that may bring. But others with a family at home have their own unique challenges.

These posters from the CDC and other international health organizations are designed specifically for this purpose. Over the next 6 weeks, they will cover many issues you may face if you are quarantining with kids.

Click here to download this poster from the WHO website.