Blog Post

How to Talk To Your Kids About Coronavirus? A Conversation Guide

Mar 05, 2020
Most health professionals agree that COVID-19, more commonly known as Coronavirus, is here to stay. Current projections vary wildly, but by most estimates, the Coronavirus Outbreak is nearing Pandemic proportions.

If you are a parent, hearing this is doubly troubling. On the one hand, you must worry about doing everything in your power to minimize the probability that your kids are exposed and become infected. On the other, you must now face the very difficult challenge of talking to your little ones about a very complex issue.

The Topic of Conversation

By now, Coronavirus is a household name. Whether you go to work, school, church, the grocery store, the playground, the hot topic of conversation is how Coronavirus is EVERYWHERE. And because of the 24-hour news cycle, even if you stay home, it is difficult to stay away from talks of quarantines, death tolls, and national emergencies.

It is inevitable then that, at some point sooner than later, your little ones will begin to ask questions about the virus. How should you, as a parent, approach this conversation? What can you say to alleviate their growing doubts and deepening fear? How can you tell them the truth without generating even more anxiety and alarm?

Keep Calm and Don’t Panic.

It is crucial that you keep your cool and show them that YOU are calm. Children are exceptionally adept at intuiting subtext from the words and actions of those around them. So if you begin the unavoidable Coronavirus conversation by losing your cool, your kids will pick up on YOUR fear right away. Good luck talking them off the ledge then.

Remember that you are their capstone; their entire worldview is derived from yours, so make sure to maintain peace of mind when they ask their questions.

Ask Them Questions

Before you begin spewing-off facts and figures, it is advisable that you ask them simple questions about what they have heard. This is important because it is almost certain that your kids have been misinformed by their peers. Furthermore, it is very likely that they hear contradictory information daily, and this only fuels their confusion and anxiety.

Be Truthful - Never Lie

Tell your kids the truth. Use simple language so that they may quickly grasp the true nature of the situation but do so without going into unnecessary details.

Start by explaining what the Coronavirus is, what the most common symptoms are, etc. riff on their questions and adjust your answers accordingly.

Reassure them by telling them that most cases amount to nothing more than a flu. Tell them that, contrary to what they’ve been hearing, very few people who are sick from Coronavirus are dying from the infection.

Most importantly, use this conversation to teach your kids about the preventive measures they can take to minimize their risk of becoming ill. Scared kids look to adults for solutions to their problems, so give them concrete actions to follow.

Kids like to feel important, so tell them that by protecting themselves, they will also be protecting others. 

Everything Will Be Alright

Finally, tell your kids that everything will be alright. 

Reassure them by telling them that there are tens of thousands of very smart people such as doctors, scientists, and health professionals, working nonstop to find a cure, and help stop the virus.

Coronavirus is not the first viral outbreak to affect humanity. Yet here we are, still going strong.

Keep in mind that the conversation will likely not end after only one sitting, so be prepared to continually address any new doubts that may arise as the situation evolves.
Image of mother and children meditating on their living room sofa.

Finding Calm: A Breathwork and Mindfulness Program for the Whole Family

07 May, 2024
Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine can significantly improve the mental and physical well-being of children, teens, and parents alike. By following this breathwork and mindfulness program, families can achieve a state of calm and relaxation, reducing stress and enhancing overall quality of life. Remember, consistency is key, and the more you practice, the greater the benefits you'll experience.
Image of stressed couple sitting on a park bench.

Managing Stress for a Healthier and Happier Life

01 Apr, 2024
Managing stress is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing the signs of stress, building resilience, and utilizing available resources can significantly improve mental and physical well-being. As we observe National Stress Awareness Month, let’s take the opportunity to prioritize our health, explore effective stress management strategies, and support each other in leading happier, healthier lives.
Image of adolescents at the gym exercising together.

The Pivotal Role of Physical Fitness in Adolescent Health

27 Mar, 2024
By supporting and encouraging our teens to embrace an active lifestyle, we're not just aiding them in maintaining their physical health; we're empowering them with the tools to face life's challenges with a robust and resilient mindset.
Image of redhead girl reading a book.

Story Time Magic: Best Books for Young Readers

15 Mar, 2024
Great children's books not only provide entertainment but also open doors to new worlds, helping children develop empathy, understanding, and a lifelong love for reading.
Image of child's foot and footprint on a piece of paper.

Celebrating Milestones: Ideas for Marking Your Child’s Growth and Achievements

27 Feb, 2024
Remember, the most important aspect of celebrating milestones is to create a sense of love, accomplishment, and family. Whatever method you choose, it’s these feelings that will linger in your child’s memory the most.
Image of two children gardening with their grandparent.

My First Garden: Gardening Projects for Kids

15 Feb, 2024
Gardening projects offer endless opportunities for learning, growth, and fun. They teach responsibility, patience, and the joy of nurturing life.
Image of two children doing arts and crafts indoors.

Rainy Day Activities: Keeping Kids Entertained Indoors

23 Jan, 2024
Rainy days don't have to be boring. With a little creativity, they can provide opportunities for fun, learning, and making memories.
Image of child sleeping in bed.

Understanding and Managing Pediatric Sleep Disorders

17 Jan, 2024
Sleep is a complex process, and when disorders arise, they can be challenging for both the child and the family. However, by understanding the common sleep disorders, recognizing the signs, and taking proactive steps towards management, these issues can be effectively addressed.
Red and white Christmas ornament.

Embracing the Warmth of Family and Friends During the Holidays

20 Dec, 2023
Whether it's decorating the Christmas tree together, preparing a family meal, or simply sitting by the fire sharing old tales, these moments are what truly make the holiday season special.
Image of infant with finger in mouth smiling.

Ensuring Proper Dental Hygiene from the Start: A Parent's Guide

11 Dec, 2023
When it comes to our little ones, we often focus intently on their nutrition, sleep, and physical health, but dental hygiene is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being that sometimes gets overlooked.
More Posts
Share by: