With all the hype surrounding the current COVID-19 pandemic, children between the ages of 7 and 9 will be aware of what is going on. They may have heard that kids aren’t impacted by this virus to a great extent, but that older people are – triggering fears about their grandparents’ safety. They may even be worried about money since parents are currently not at work.
So, how do you talk to your child and help them feel safe?
• Try to spend extra time together. This will provide extra reassurance.
• Limit media coverage.
• If routines are disrupted, explain that this is part of the precautions grown-ups are taking to prevent people from getting sick. It doesn’t mean that all their teachers and friends are sick.
• If fear persists, point out all the things adults are doing to help, and to prevent the virus from spreading.
• Ask them if they have any questions. If they do, stick to the facts.
Remember, children of this age may not understand all the facts that will certainly know that something is up. If you remain calm, so will they.
Source: www.psychologytoday.com/…/how-talk-kids-and-teens-about-the…