21: How to explain COVID-19 and the need for isolation to children?
Q: How do I explain COVID-19 and the need for isolation to my children? 💁 Tracy: This depends on the age and level of understanding of your children, but there are some general guidelines below: Remain calm as you explain the situation. Children react to the feelings of their caregivers. Begin with past experiences. Most children have been sick with a cold or other illness. Explain that COVID-19 is an illness also, but that it is more severe so we must be more careful to keep everyone safe. This is why schools have closed and activities have been canceled. Remind children of hygiene rules and that following the rules gives them the power to prevent illness. Explain the positive steps you and your family are taking to keep everyone safe. Include things such as wearing masks when you must leave the house. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and answer their questions. If a child seems uninterested, they may need time to process what you’ve told them. Don’t push