School shutdowns, cancellation of large and small events, working from home and social distancing are fast bringing abrupt changes to all of our lives. In addition to teaching your children and ensuring that they follow the CDC Guidelines for prevention and protection from COVID-19, consider the following tips on how to take care of your kids during COVID-19.
Pay attention to and manage your children’s anxiety.
Although many of us are comforted by the fact that young people are thought to be less vulnerable to COVID-19, it is important to understand our children are not immune to fear and anxiety over this virus. The world is changing and the media is sounding the alarm 24 hours a day. The news can sound very dramatic, especially with background music designed to put your mind and nervous system on alert as they read the latest death count.
This is bound to have an impact on anybody listening, especially young children.
Children can experience intense fear for themselves and others. It is important to be aware of and sensitive to children’s fears — do not dismiss their worries as unimportant. Read about the signs of anxiety in your children as they may not express their fears verbally. Some children will experience physical symptoms such as tummy aches or a general feeling of being unwell when they are anxious. They may not say “I’m worried Mom and Dad will get sick, or I’m scared Grandma and Grandpa will die”, even though they may be having these kinds of thoughts.
Be sure to do what you can to reassure your children and help them through their anxiety. Teach your children how to wash their hands and remind them that we have some control over our level of risk if we take the proper precautions.
Five things your children need during the COVID-19 shutdown
1. Exercise
Find ways to give your children opportunities to exercise while being mindful of social distancing. This will look different depending on your circumstances and where you live. Some people can go for a walk, although keep in mind health authorities have advised caution in playgrounds because other people may be there.
However, you can also learn to practice in-home exercise options such as yoga. There are many online options for exercise and online yoga classes. Yoga is not only good for the body but also can teach you and your child the basics of meditation, breathing, and stretching.
2. Get out in nature
If possible, spend some time in nature. Getting fresh air is important. Go for a walk in a park while being mindful of social distancing and washing your hands as soon as you get home.
3. Make sure you get regular sleep
Even though schools may be closed and our regular routines have been disrupted, bedtime routines need to stay the same. Make sure your child or children go to bed at the same time every night. If your child is anxious, talk to them before bed and be considerate of their potential fears, but at the same time, continuing to set boundaries and gentle discipline around bedtime rules is important.
4. Keep reading
This is a good time to spend time reading and encouraging your children to read. Reading out loud to your child and having your child practice reading out loud to you is a nice way to spend time together rather than spending too much time in front of the TV or video games.
5. Enjoy life
Above all, we need to remind our children that we can still enjoy life. Much of this is about perspective. Think of the positive things that are going on rather than the negative. Many of us are now given the opportunity to spend more quality time together — we can read, watch a fun movie together, and go for a walk.
Remember to stay calm and find ways to enjoy family time together.
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Dr. Jennifer Lish can help you reduce anxiety and live healthily during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call now to get started, or just fill out the contact form and click Send.
Dr. Lish also offers therapy and treatment for adults and teens. Click here to learn more about how Dr. Lish can help.
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