isu-extension-150x150-29

The COVID-19 pandemic is a whole new territory for most parents of young children, and ISU Extension and Outreach offers some advice on how to navigate this uncertain territory with your family.

Extension Human Sciences Specialist Mackenzie DeJong says children may have many different reactions to what they are hearing about COVID-19, and that changes in your child’s behavior may be signs or symptoms of distress or discomfort from this situation.

DeJong recommends open communication about the virus, “We like to say ‘Speak simply and honestly about what’s going on.’ I know that’s one of the big questions I think, floating around the internet is, ‘What do I say to my kids in this time? So we recommend you speak simply and honestly about what’s going on, ask them what they know so far, what they might understand. Get engaged on that depending on their age, you know they might know a lot, they might know absolutely nothing so just kind of see where they are at in that learning.”

DeJong adds it’s best to limit some details of an event like COVID-19 as to not overly concern them. Other ways to help children cope is to make time to comfort and reassure your children like with a gentle hug, and share with them how you are feeling and suggest a positive response, like writing a card or drawing a picture for a grandparent.