One of the most important roles that parents play in a child’s life is modeling proper responses in a challenging time. This starts from the moment that a child comes into the world and provides opportunities for teaching how to handle tough situations. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a situation for parents and educators to manage. It requires that we provide accurate information about the virus along with good prevention practices without causing our children undue alarm. At a time when we feel uncertainty as adults, it demands that we provide reassurance to our students and a safe place to process concerns.
So what helps? Maintaining calm during the 24/7 news exposure is critical. Adolescents will take cues from your response and it is essential that they get factual information that supports their safety and well-being. The calm and thoughtful responses of key adults can quiet any fears that children can have. Discuss the issues around COVID-19 but note that prevention efforts are taking place in our school and the community. It can also be helpful to remind them of the proactive efforts they can take for themselves such as regular hand washing and bumping elbows instead of shaking hands. Feeling an ability to exercise some control is beneficial to everyone. Encourage limited television and social media exposure to stories about the coronavirus. In addition to accessing information that is fact-based, it is helpful to not watch coverage excessively. Maintaining routine as much as possible in times of challenge is helpful and shouldn’t include media overload. As always, our students benefit from getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and spending time with the people important to them. This is always good practice but is especially important in tough times.
Concerns? Our counseling department remains committed to supporting our students and families. Please call or email if we can help with anything.
Other resources:
https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources
https://www.schoolcounselor.org/school-counselors/professional-development/learn-more/coronavirus-resources
Lisa Ebeling
School Psychologist
