Counseling Newsletter
COVID-19 Issue
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus Crisis
As the COVID-19 crisis continues to unfold, many parents are wondering how to talk to children about the impacts of the virus in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be. Here is some advice from the experts at the Child Mind Institute.
- Welcome their questions. With so much up in the air, kids are bound to have questions they might not be asking. Encourage them to ask and, whatever the question, try to take your child’s concerns seriously.
- Don’t avoid questions you can’t answer. Given how much uncertainty there is, try to be comfortable saying “I don’t know.”
- Set the tone. Look at these conversations as an opportunity not just to convey the facts but set the emotional tone.
- Be developmentally appropriate. Don’t volunteer too much information, as this may be overwhelming. Instead, try to answer your child’s questions honestly and clearly.
- Take your cues from your child. Invite your child to tell you anything they may have heard about the coronavirus, and how they feel. Give them ample opportunity to ask questions.
- Deal with your own anxiety. When you’re feeling most anxious or panicked, that isn’t the time to talk to your kids about what’s happening with the coronavirus.
- Be reassuring.
- Focus on what you’re already doing to stay safe.
- Keep talking. Tell kids that you will continue to keep them updated as you learn more.
By: Rachel Ehmke- Child Mind Institute
At times of high stress, remember to
Breathe
Deep diaphragmatic breathing can be used during times when you are feeling anxious or panicky. It is a powerful way to control hyperventilation, slow a rapid heartbeat and promote physical comfort. For this reason we will call it the Calming Breath.
Release
How do you release your stress? Painting, exercise, writing in a journal, meditation, long walks in nature, yoga, speaking with friends, reading? Whatever hobby it may be, find a safe way to release your anxious thoughts.
Be Grateful
It is hard to find the good in a world that is continually sharing the bad. Try though, to focus on 3 things a day for which you are grateful...focus on these things throughout the day.
Online Learning During COVID-19
How to reach us
Mrs. Tina DeSimone
Mrs. Lindsay Fassel
Ms. Morgan Brown
Email: Counselor@medinacsd.org
Website: https://www.medinacsd.org/domain/243
Location: 1016 Gwinn Street, Medina, NY, USA
Phone: (585) 798-2700