The news about the coronavirus is already everywhere. They can't help but reach the children as well. This will give rise to many questions and probably worries in the little ones. Given the situation in which the ever-growing pandemic of the novel has caused worldwide, parents should explain to their children what this means, why it is necessary for everyone to stay at home and limit their social contacts, what hygiene should be observed, to protect ourselves from infections and many other things that directly affect children.
However, how to talk to your child about this delicate topic without startling him and at the same time so that he understands you correctly?
Keep Calm
No matter how anxious you are inside, no matter how many doubts and questions worry you about the he alth of your family, in front of your child you must keep your composure and be calm. Explain everything you know so far. Answer the child's questions. Don't give away your panic if you're feeling it. It will increase the child's anxiety many times over. Seeing his parents panicking is the last thing he needs because you are his protection.
Stay informed
When you start a conversation with your child about the coronavirus, you will be surprised how much information they have gathered from different sources, consciously or not. Answer the questions as thoroughly as possible. If you don't know some of the answers, look them up.
Encourage the child to wash their hands properly. Explain to him how important this is, not only at this critical time of a pandemic of a new unknown contagion, but always. Show him the correct way to wash his hands. Remind the child of the importance of keeping a distance from other people, especially around sick people showing visible symptoms. Teach the child to get used to not having to touch his face.
Be flexible
Broadly speaking, there are two types of people – those for whom a lot of information overwhelms them and increases their anxiety, and those for whom constant talking about the critical he alth topic calms them down. First, assess which group you belong to, so that you, as an adult, can control yourself in front of the child, and then assess his nature in order to choose an approach.
Be available
Remember that no matter how questionable the situation may be and no matter how insecure you feel because of its new and unfamiliar nature, you must be available to the child when he has questions or needs comfort. Parents are the natural protection to which the child instinctively turns in moments of crisis. Be there for him.
