We should explain important things to kids before they exchange half-truths at school. However, we don’t want to cause unnecessary fear. Jacqueline Sperling, PhD contributes to Harvard Health Publishing blog and she believes the best way to discuss the virus with kids is to wait until they ask for information.
Don’t Overload Your Child with Information
Jacqueline Sperling recommends providing just enough information and no more. Of course your child has a right to know about the Covid virus, but you don’t want their fertile imagination to run away from them. The best way to discuss the virus with kids is providing accurate information. Make sure you know enough to answer these four questions likely to come up in the conservation:
What is the coronavirus … It is a germ that makes people feel sick. It’s like having the flu except some people may get sicker.
How do you catch the coronavirus … Just like with flu, people spread it by coughing and sneezing the germ out so other people can breathe it in.
Should we all wear facemasks … You can wear one if you like, although they are really for people who already have the flu so they can’t spread it.
Can you die from this kind of flu …Most people get better on their own within a few weeks. A few have to visit hospital so doctors can help them get better there.
The Best Way to Discuss the Virus with Kids Is Calming Their Fears
Explain to your child they should keep on doing the things that they enjoy, so they show the virus who is the boss. However, they do need to practice two new habits. These are washing their hands often, and sneezing and coughing into their elbow so the germs can’t have their own way.
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