Scared, nervous, frustrated, uncertain… these can all be feelings we experience while enduring the effects of the pandemic. Emotions that are overwhelming for adults can be especially difficult for little minds to comprehend. Here are five tips for talking to your children about COVID-19:

1. Be a role model: Children are extremely observant and are looking to your behaviors for guidance. They will react how you do and learn from your example. Whenever possible, allow your children to see that feelings are normal, but demonstrate them in appropriate ways. As parents we need to be the calm in our children’s storm.

2. Don’t fuel fear: Minimize how much media coverage to which your children are being exposed. Be aware of how you talk about COVID-19, because children can sense fear and panic. Remind your children that they are healthy and emphasize that your family is safe.

3. Explain basics: Children know that something big is going on in the world and they are doing their best to understand it. Use language that is effective for your child’s developmental level. Be honest and accurate about facts without providing unnecessary details. Explain what germs are, how they spread, and the importance of safety measures, such as washing hands.

4. Listen and encourage: Be a good listener and encourage children to verbalize their thoughts and feelings. It is important to keep talking about feelings and how this is hard on everyone, including moms and dads. Normalize conversations about emotions so children are comfortable discussing the large array of feelings they might experience.

5. Look for the good: Have conversations about positive things that have resulted from the situation, such as more time together, video chats with family, spending time outdoors, etc. Self-care is important so try new things like writing in a journal or an at-home spa day! 

Hello! I am Amanda Robertson, and I am the Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist for Oakland Family Services’ Children’s Learning Centers. I have been working with children for almost 20 years and have one baby girl of my own. I have a master’s degree in counseling from Oakland University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in child development. My career began with teaching day care and expanded to various positions including ABA therapy, child welfare and residential treatment. I absolutely love what I do and love being a part of Oakland Family Services!