In a world that has turned upside down due to the coronavirus, everyone is feeling some fear and anxiety. So many things have changed for all of us. Its hard to be an adult right now and worry about what the future holds for our family. Whether it be our health or finances, its an extremely scary time.

Kids are suffering emotionally now too. So much about all that surrounds the coronavirus is confusing to them. They feed off of your anxiety and distress. Try and make this a little easier for them by keeping the lines of communication open. Help them, as best you can to understand. Validate their feelings and share yours.

It seems easy enough, but yet so hard. How do you do it and do it well? How should you begin the conversation? How honest should you be? How do I talk to my five year old compared to my thirteen year old?

We taked to Dr. Jim Schroeder, PhD, a 1995 graduate of Mater Dei High School and the Vice President of Psychology & Wellness at Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center, to help guide us thought these difficult, uncharted parenting waters.

 

 

African American father and his son.
Getty Images/iStockphoto
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More tips to use when talking to your kids about the coronavirus.

  • Don’t be afraid to discuss the coronavirus 
  • Be developmentally appropriate
  • Take your cues from your child
  • Deal with your own anxiety
  • Be reassuring
  • Focus on what you’re doing to stay safe
  • Stick to routine
  • Keep talking

Get details on these tips HERE.

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What Has COVID-19 Made You Realize?

 

 

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