Happy New Year guys!! So parents, schools are open and our children might have so many fears, questions and even anxiety. This may be hard for you as you might be having anxiety too, don’t worry!! We got you!! Here are some tips that will help you get your children through this time.
STAY CALM: Be in a stable state of mind so as to help your kids cope. Try and stay positive and calm when talking to your kids and this will assure your kids that they are going to be fine even when going to school during the pandemic.
BE A ROLE MODEL: Practice the guidelines from the Ministry of Health at home such as washing your hands with soap or using an alcohol based sanitizer, wearing your mask properly when in public, sneezing/coughing through your elbow and social distancing. This way your kids will adapt these guidelines even when in school.
TALK TO THEM: Be aware of how you talk about COVID-19. Your discussion about COVID-19 can increase or decrease your child’s fear. If true, remind your child that your family is healthy, and you are going to do everything within your power to keep loved ones safe and well. Carefully listen or have them draw or write out their thoughts and feelings and respond with truth and reassurance.
EXPLAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING: Children probably don’t fully understand why parents/guardians aren’t allowing them to be with friends. Tell your child that your family is following the guidelines from the government which includes social distancing. Social distancing means staying away from others until the risk of contracting COVID-19 is under control. Showing older children the “flatten the curve” charts will help them grasp the significance of social distancing. Explain that while we don’t know how long it will take to “flatten the curve” to reduce the number of those infected, we do know that this is a critical time—we must follow the guidelines of health experts to do our part.
FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE: Celebrate having more time to spend as a family. Make it as fun as possible. Do family projects. Organize belongings, create masterpieces. Sing, laugh, and go outside, if possible, to connect with nature and get needed exercise. Allow older children to connect with their friends virtually. Assure them that you love them and that everything will be okay. Make them feel loved and protected.
We hope these tips help you and your children cope with the new normal as we continue with the year. Stay positive! Stay calm! STAY SAFE!!!
Lorraine Kasse, House of Sahara
*Please note that this article provides suggestions and in no way replaces the advice of licensed professionals.