Teens are chatting with friends on social media about Covid-19 because they want to know the truth. It’s great that they communicate, however as parents we have a duty to ensure they are up to speed with what’s actually happening. Jacqueline Sperling, PhD writes for Harvard Health Blog. Her post about talking to teens about the Covid-19 virus caught our eye and we decided to share.
Get the Facts Before Talking to Teens About the Covid-19 Virus
Teens are smart and they switch off if they already have an opinion about something. Before you share your ‘words of wisdom’, find out what they already know, advises Jacqueline Sperling. She says teens are likely to be curious why the epidemic is happening now.
We therefore need to explain this is not a unique event when talking to teens about the Covid-19 virus. Virus epidemics have happened before and scientists have contained them. However, the speed the virus is spreading at is alarming. Moreover, the rate information goes viral on social media is making things seem worse than they are.
Can Our Pets Fall Ill and Could We Die?
The virus is species-specific so it only affects humans. There will be deaths yes, but no more than the common influenza we have gotten used to. Many of us may not even consult a doctor because a few days in bed sees us through.
When talking to teens about the Covid-19 virus we need to explain medical science has solutions for the symptoms but the real risk is the rate of infection. This is straining our health care capacity. Therefore the government may ask us to shelter to slow down the spread of the virus.
This is why our teens may find their schools closing for a while. However, they should be able to continue with their studies over the internet until it reopens, which will happen once the risk has passed.
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Preview Image: Teens Chilling in Their World
