In the midst of the current coronavirus scare, it is important to talk to your kids in a positive and reassuring way. The power of positive parenting can help alleviate their fears and provide them with a sense of calmness. In a video by Live On Purpose TV, four steps are suggested to effectively talk to your child about the coronavirus scare: remain calm, teach appropriate hygiene and health practices, address their “what if” fears, and show unconditional love and support. By remaining calm ourselves, teaching them proper hygiene practices, discussing possible scenarios and reassuring them that they can handle the situation, and emphasizing that we love them no matter what, we can help ease their anxiety and promote their overall well-being. Remember, seeking help and utilizing available resources for conscious parenting support is always an option. Let’s approach this challenging situation with positivity, calmness, and unwavering support for our kids.
Positive parenting is key when it comes to talking to kids about the coronavirus scare. In a video by Live On Purpose TV, four steps are suggested: remain calm, teach appropriate hygiene practices, address “what if” fears, and show love and support. By remaining calm, teaching hygiene and health practices, addressing fears, and emphasizing unconditional love and support, we can help alleviate our children’s anxiety and ensure their well-being. It’s important to remember that seeking help and utilizing available resources is an option if needed. Let’s approach this conversation with positivity and reassurance to help our kids navigate through these uncertain times.
Remain Calm
Importance of staying calm
It is crucial to remain calm when talking to children about the coronavirus scare. Children look to their parents or caregivers for reassurance and guidance, and if they sense panic or fear, it can escalate their own anxiety. Remaining calm sends the message that the situation is under control and that there is no immediate danger. It is important to approach the conversation with a calm voice, a calm face, and a calm body.
How to stay calm
To stay calm, it can be helpful to remind yourself that this is just another challenge that you and your family will face together. It is also beneficial to think about examples from movies or real-life events where people remained calm in difficult situations. For example, consider the character in the movie “Bridge of Spies” who remained calm despite being in a high-stress situation. Remembering that panicking does not help and that keeping calm can have a positive impact on everyone involved can help you stay grounded.
Avoid panic and fear
Panic and fear can be contagious, especially for children who are more sensitive to their surroundings and rely on adults for guidance. It is important to avoid spreading panic or fear to your children. Instead, focus on providing them with accurate information, reassurance, and practical steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones. By staying calm and composed, you can help create a sense of security and stability for your children during these uncertain times.
Teach Hygiene and Health Practices
Importance of hygiene
Teaching children about proper hygiene practices is crucial in reducing the spread of any illness, including the coronavirus. By practicing good hygiene, children can protect themselves and others from getting infected. Emphasize the importance of hygiene and explain that practicing hygiene is a way of taking responsibility for their own health and well-being.
Proper handwashing techniques
Proper handwashing is essential in preventing the spread of germs. Teach your children the proper handwashing technique, which includes washing their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Show them how to lather their hands, including the backs, between their fingers, and under their nails. Encourage them to sing a song or count to 20 to make sure they are washing their hands for the recommended amount of time.
Covering nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
Another important hygiene practice is covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Teach your children to use their elbow or a tissue instead of their hands to cover their mouth and nose. Explain that this helps prevent the spread of germs to others. Encourage them to dispose of used tissues properly and to wash their hands afterward.
Address ‘What If’ Fears
Discussing possible scenarios
Addressing ‘what if’ fears involves having open and honest conversations with your children about possible scenarios. It is important to listen to their concerns and acknowledge their fears. By discussing different situations, you can help them understand the reality of the situation and provide them with appropriate information to alleviate their fears.
Reassuring kids of their ability to handle the situation
Reassure your children that they have the ability to handle the situation. Remind them of previous challenges they have overcome and highlight their resilience. By emphasizing their strengths and capabilities, you can bolster their confidence and help them feel more secure in their ability to handle unexpected situations.
Avoid making unrealistic promises
While it is important to provide reassurance and support, it is also crucial to avoid making unrealistic promises. Instead, focus on what steps you and your family are taking to ensure everyone’s health and well-being. Help children understand that while they may come into contact with the virus, there are precautions they can take to minimize the risk, such as maintaining good hygiene practices and following guidelines from healthcare professionals.
Show Love and Support
Importance of love and support
Showing love and support is essential for children during difficult and uncertain times. By expressing your love, care, and support, you provide children with a sense of security and stability. This emotional support can help alleviate their anxieties and fears, making them feel more confident and resilient.
Reassuring children of unconditional love
Reassure your children that your love for them is unconditional and unwavering. Let them know that regardless of the circumstances or what may happen, your love for them remains constant. This reassurance can help children feel safe and secure, knowing that they have a loving and supportive presence in their lives.
Being present and available
In addition to verbal reassurances, being present and available for your children is crucial. Make time to engage in activities together, listen to their concerns, and answer their questions. By being fully present, you can create a safe space for them to express their emotions and seek comfort and support.
Avoid Promising Nothing Will Happen
Negative impact of false promises
Promising children that nothing will happen can have a negative impact on their mental well-being. It creates unrealistic expectations and may increase their anxiety if they perceive any deviation from the promised outcome as a failure or a cause for concern. It is essential to provide honest and accurate information and focus on the steps they can take to protect themselves and others.
Emphasize taking steps for health and well-being
Instead of making false promises, emphasize the importance of taking steps to ensure health and well-being. Teach children about hygiene practices, social distancing, and following guidelines from healthcare professionals. By focusing on actionable steps, children can develop a sense of control and empowerment over their own health.
Creating a sense of control
Empower your children by giving them a sense of control over their actions and behaviors. Encourage them to be proactive in following hygiene practices, engaging in healthy habits, and implementing safety measures. This sense of control can help alleviate their fears and bolster their confidence in their ability to protect themselves and others.
Seek Help If Needed
Encouraging parents to seek support
Parenting during times of crisis can be challenging, and it is important to remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you find yourself struggling to address your children’s fears or manage your own anxiety, reach out to a support system. Talk to friends, family members, or parenting groups who can offer guidance and reassurance.
Resources for conscious parenting
There are numerous resources available for conscious parenting. Online communities, support groups, and websites provide valuable information and strategies for talking to children about sensitive topics. Take advantage of these resources to gain additional insights and perspectives that can help you navigate challenging conversations with your children.
Professional assistance if necessary
If you or your children are experiencing significant distress or anxiety, it may be helpful to seek professional assistance. Mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. They can help you develop effective coping strategies and provide a safe space for processing emotions related to the coronavirus situation.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
Provide a safe space for open communication
Creating a comfortable and safe environment encourages open communication between you and your children. Let them know that they can share their concerns and fears with you without judgment or criticism. By fostering an atmosphere of trust, you can establish a strong foundation for discussing difficult topics and supporting your children emotionally.
Validate children’s feelings
Validating your children’s feelings is essential in helping them navigate their emotions during challenging times. Acknowledge their fears, anxieties, and uncertainties. Let them know that it is normal to feel this way and that their feelings are valid. By validating their emotions, you create a supportive environment where they can express themselves freely.
Encourage questions and discussions
Encourage your children to ask questions and engage in discussions about the coronavirus. Provide age-appropriate information and address their inquiries with honesty and sensitivity. By encouraging these conversations, you can help children understand the situation better and alleviate any misconceptions or misunderstandings they may have.
Be Honest and Age-Appropriate
Tailoring information to children’s age
When discussing the coronavirus, it is important to tailor the information to your children’s age and developmental level. Younger children may need simpler explanations, while older children can understand more complex concepts. Provide information that is appropriate for their age, using language and examples they can relate to.
Giving accurate and honest explanations
It is important to give accurate and honest explanations to your children. Provide them with facts from trusted sources, such as reputable health organizations or government websites. Avoid speculating or sharing unverified information that may cause unnecessary fear or confusion.
Avoiding unnecessary details
While being honest is crucial, it is also important to avoid giving unnecessary details that may overwhelm or scare your children. Stick to the main points and focus on the steps they can take to stay safe and healthy. Tailor the information to their level of understanding and provide reassurance as needed.
Maintain a Routine
Importance of a structured routine
Maintaining a structured routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability for children. Routines help children feel secure, knowing what to expect each day. This can be particularly helpful during times of uncertainty when disruptions to their normal routines can contribute to increased anxiety.
Consistency and predictability
Consistency and predictability are key components of a structured routine. Establish regular wake-up and bedtime routines, meal times, and designated times for schoolwork, play, and relaxation. This consistency helps children feel a sense of control and stability, reducing their anxiety and promoting overall well-being.
Creating a sense of stability
By maintaining a routine, you create a sense of stability in your children’s lives. Even if external circumstances are changing, having a consistent schedule can provide a sense of normalcy and security. It helps children adapt to new routines, manage their time effectively, and cope with any disruptions more easily.
Conclusion
Importance of positive parenting in addressing coronavirus fears
Positive parenting plays a crucial role in talking to children about the coronavirus scare. By remaining calm, teaching hygiene practices, addressing ‘what if’ fears, showing love and support, avoiding false promises, seeking help if needed, creating a comfortable environment, being honest and age-appropriate, maintaining a routine, and providing emotional support, parents can help alleviate their children’s fears and anxiety.
Providing children with emotional support
Children rely on their parents or caregivers for emotional support and guidance. By showing love, reassurance, and empathy, parents can create a safe space for children to express their emotions, ask questions, and seek comfort during challenging times. Providing emotional support helps children navigate their fears and develop resilience.
Seeking help if needed
Parents should not hesitate to seek help if they or their children are experiencing significant distress or anxiety. Support systems, online resources, and professional assistance are available to provide guidance and support tailored to individual needs. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and a proactive step towards ensuring the well-being of your family.