The pandemic has left us all with a lot of uncertainty. Everything from shopping to working is different, and no one has a clear answer to when life will get back to normal. Navigating the changes brought on by COVID-19 may be even tougher for our children. They now have to cope with big changes, deal with fear and loss, and attending school remotely.
We’ve pulled together expert advice and resources to help parents and care givers answer kids’ COVID-19 related questions.
Coping with Big Changes
The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) offers tips on how to offer reassurance and off age-appropriate explanations.
You can read NASP’s complete advice here: Helping Children Cope with Changes Resulting from COVID-19
Talking to Children about Scary Topics
The American Psychological Association (APA) advises adults talk to kids about what is going on in the world, rather than trying to shield them from it. Otherwise, a child may overestimate or misunderstand the situation.
The APA offers practical ways to guide the conversation with children around scary topics, including tips for first finding out what they know to sharing your own feelings. You can read APA’s guidelines here: How to Talk to Children About Difficult News
Remote Learning and School at Home
Many schools have shifted to teaching their students through remote learning. Virtual learning has created challenges for both students and parents. The American Academy of Pediatrics, though HealthyChildren.org is providing families with a resource to help.
If you’re wondering how to establish a school routine or worry about extra screen time, this article can answer your questions. Read here: Working and Learning from Home During the COVID-19 Outbreak
At Operation Warm, we are working with our schools, beneficiaries and partners to make sure we can deliver much-needed coats in the most efficient and safest way possible. For more information about our COVID-19 response, click here.
