Talking to children about Coronavirus can be hard; as adults we know much more than they do, and we worry about making them anxious.

Sometimes this can stop us talking directly to children about Coronaviru

Coronavirus and Children

s and this can make them even more anxious. It’s always better to have a conversation with a child than to try and ignore it.

With young children kneel down so they can see your face while you are talking
Use language which they can understand
Answer the question they have asked – don’t go into lengthy explanations
Try and use examples that they are familiar with e.g. “It’s like when you were ill last year and had to stay off school”.
Add an element of fun where you can – try singing a favourite song while washing your hands together for 20 seconds
Stick to routine if possible; children feel safe when they know what is going to happen next. Have a structure that you stick to each day with regular mealtimes and bedtimes
Be careful of how much information your child is getting from the media one topic can make them more anxious
Try to avoid having conversations in front of children when they are not included; overhearing things and how concerned you are will worry them
If they are worried, reassure them that most people get better and that people aren’t unwell for long
Do get your information from reliable sources such as Governmentwebsites, the NHS or the BBC
Here is a great story about the pandemic for kids https://carolgraysocialstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Pandemics-and-the-Coronavirus.pdf

Being isolated, bored and anxious at home can lead to feelings of low mood, irritability and depression. I have put together some top apps for children and teens that should help keep them amused. Some apps are fun some more educational. Before handing a phone or tablet over to a kid, make sure they don’t know the password for your account, and that they need to ask before they click.