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As a school we know how fortunate we have been to learn, work and live in a country where despite the lockdown of 2020 we are living in relative freedom and safety in relation to the COVID pandemic.

We also know that many in our school community may currently be experiencing significant worry and concerns for family members and friends in other countries, especially India, who are experiencing the pandemic in ways unseen in Australia.

Our children are very sensitive to their environment and will pick up on the concerns of their family and friends. It is important to remember our children are looking towards us for reassurance and cues on how to react and respond.

1. Offer a sense of control during times of uncertainty

One way to provide our children with certainty in uncertain times is with facts, for example, telling them the evidence so far shows children are less likely to experience severe symptoms than older adults.

You can also help them gain a sense of control by talking with them about ways they can help. This may be making cards, writing letters or drawing pictures to send, or making regular times to connect online to friends and family overseas.

2. Stay with the facts

When answering such questions, use information from the World Health Organisation and other trustworthy sources to inform yourself.

Filter some of the incorrect information around COVID-19 and inform your family with the correct information.

3. Be careful with the news media

Exposing children to sensationalist news and social media can increase their fear and anxiety.

Be careful with what news media your children are exposed to. Try to watch, listen or read it with them so you are there for any questions they may have.

Be mindful of how much media you are checking and minimise how often you are reading stories. Try to keep a healthy balance (both online and offline) in your daily routines and lifestyle.

4. Talk about feelings

It’s OK to feel scared and worried. Talking about your feelings of stress can help you work through them and shows our children that it is normal and healthy to express our emotions.

As parents you only have to listen and hear your child’s concerns. You can’t promise things will be safe or certain. But you can assure them that as a family you will work together to manage whatever comes up in the future and that you are there to listen to them.

5. Don’t pass on your fear

Research from the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic showed children’s fear of the disease was significantly related to their parents’ fear of the disease.

6. Keep on living a healthy life

It is easy to get swept away with panic about the future and what may happen. But being future-focused only contributes to anxiety.

Help your child to focus on the now and what they are doing today. These things are in their control. Adapt and create new routines and enjoy the moments.

This is a good opportunity for parents to reinforce what they have always told their kids: Get a good night’s sleep, get some sunshine, exercise, eat well and make sure you wash your hands.

Make time for play. Its more important now than ever.

7. Work together

This is a time for us to work together and support one another. Be kind to others and encourage your children to be kind to others as well. Look for opportunities to engage in “random acts of kindness” that will increase our own positive feelings as well as strengthen our communities. 

Increase your connection with loved ones by spending time together and expressing affection.

8. Boost your coping strategies.

As every person is different, so too are our coping strategies. Coping strategies can include: positive self-talk, singing, dancing, reading, drawing, music, Netflix/movies, create a gratitude list, meditation, yoga, colouring, exercise, cooking/baking, talking to a friend or family member, or doing other activities that are fun or give you joy and make you feel good.

Find support with a mentor, wise friend, medical or mental health practitioner if you find that concerns about the virus are interfering with your ability to engage in the responsibilities of daily life.

Discuss healthy ways to cope. This excellent infographic could be posted on your fridge or used as prompts for you to have discussions about healthy ways to manage ourselves.

If you notice your child is worried or anxious, be assured that this is a normal reaction. Please  continue having helpful conversations and providing care for your child, but if you find that additional support is needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or one of the school’s wellbeing team.

Links to resources:

Books

Articles

Mindfulness for Kids

  • Smiling Mind - Smiling Mind is a great mindfulness app/website for the whole family (Age 7+). Many of our students use Smiling Mind in class as a way to help calm and focus their brains and bodies. 

Tim Battersby - School Counsellor

 

 

 

 

 

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