Ways to Support Children Cope During a Pandemic
Written by: JACQUELINE GARCIA, LCSW
Families across the nation are facing the need to constantly adapt to the evolving changes caused by the spread of COVID-19. Schools, daycares, and most recreational settings are closed, leaving parents and caregivers to become the primary source of support to assist children to navigate pandemic fatigue. It is important to understand that with change children may experience feelings of fear, worries, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss, among other psychological distress.
The pandemic has brought many changes in children’s lives. Children have shifted to distance learning, limiting their abilities to practice interpersonal and social skills. In addition, parents and other caregivers have taken multiple roles at home such as becoming the teacher, the friend, while balancing their own lives. It hasn’t been easy. I wanted to offer parents and other caregivers tips that can help you support your child(ren) cope during difficult and challenging times. I have found that the power of human connection and open dialogue can go a long way when working with kiddos.
· Allow them to share their story: Kids are also trying their best to process and adjust to all the changes caused by the pandemic. By allowing them to share their view of the problem and encourage self-expression can help parents and other caregivers meet children where they are at.
· Listen to their perception of the problem: providing active listening can help your child feel seen and heard.
· Keep media to a minimum: Kids absorb information. Watching the news over and over may create fear and worries.
· Reassurance your children that they are okay: I don’t think any of us were fully equipped to face a worldwide pandemic. Reassuring your children that the situation will get better and offering a safe space for them can help reduce emotional distress.
· Incorporate breaks throughout the day: Taking short breaks may help children regroup and gain focus.
· Increase body movement: Body movement is proven to reduce tension and stress. Have your kids play a dancing game, take mindful walks, or play tag.
· Provide a safe environment at home: Going outside can feel A LOT scary, providing a safe environment at home can make children feel a sense of safety and security.
· Share appreciation and gratitude: Focusing on the good may install peace and safety.
· Make room to grieve old routines: Children are also grieving the losses of going to school, having play dates with their friends, and leaving their house without having to fear for their safety. Make room for them to heal at their own pace.
· Engage in self-soothing activities: These can look like practicing belly breathing, taking a bath, spending time with your pet, painting, and coloring.
· Find alternative coping skills: These can look like playing board games, journaling, and reading.
· Keep your stress away! Being mindful of what you share in front of your kids is important. Kids may carry their parent’s burden and stress.
Your children need you the most right now. I hope that this blog provides parents and other caregivers ideas that can help assist your child(ren) cope with any emotions stemming from loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. I see parents battling their feelings and experiences while at the same time doing the best that they can to create a sense of normalcy in their children’s lives. I see you, I hear you, I feel you and I am rooting for YOU.
Written by: JACQUELINE GARCIA, MSW, LICENSED CLINIAL SOCIAL WORKER 93936