As the adults in the world continue to grasp the reality of the Covid-19 pandemic, sometimes we don’t realize how our actions might affect the youngest members of our community.  A favorite Mister Rogers’ quote ran through my mind, “Anything that’s human is mentionable and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.  When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting and less scary”.   As a preschool community, we are proactively working to prepare for how to remain there for the children as a learning community while not meeting in person. We are looking at the option of Zoom calls as a way to foster the connections between the children and teachers during this time of uncertainty and make things less upsetting and less scary. 

With schools closing and big events canceled, children have questions and concerns about coronavirus or COVID-19. That can be tough to talk about, especially when you probably have just as many questions and concerns.

"Kids need to feel safe and not worry," says Katie Ryder, a family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente in the mid-Atlantic region. "That’s our biggest role as the trusted adults in children’s lives, to help them do that."

Here are some tips on how to talk to your children about coronavirus.

First of all, stay calm

We know: Easier said than done. But kids pick up on how you’re feeling. If you’re showing panic or anxiety, so will they. Instead, validate their concerns to show that you understand why they might be nervous—and that a little nervousness is OK. "But it’s important for them to know that there’s no need to panic," Ryder says.

Then talk calmly about what’s happening, and reassure them that people are working very hard to make things better. Children need to know that grownups are working together to make sure kids are safe. 

Meet children where they are

Young children might not be asking any questions, and in that case, there’s no reason to discuss the topic. But other kids will want answers, and parents shouldn’t shy away from talking about what’s going on. Be honest - But don't scare them or become alarmist.  Limiting exposure to television reports and social media—especially as the infection rate continues to increase—can help, since too much can get those active imaginations running toward something akin to a zombie apocalypse.

Help them feel like they're in control

One of the best ways to calm children is to help them feel like they can protect not just themselves—but other people as well. Tell them that when they follow the rules for staying healthy, that helps other people stay safe since the child won’t be spreading the disease. "This is their job—to do what they already know they should be doing to keep themselves and others healthy," Ryder says.

Pinnacle Presbyterian Preschool will continue to be a safe space for the children in our community and for being such critical members of our community. As the days continue, we’ll be doing everything we can to stay abreast of the situation and will continue to utilize the guidance of the experts in the field and our local health department to determine any necessary next steps. Wishing you health and happiness from the preschool community!