COVID-19 has impacted millions of families across the country. Many of us are now working from home, with our children home and away from school. Your kids may be worried, confused or scared about what is happening around the world and why.

It’s important to answer their questions and reassure them that they are safe. Use these tips from the Child Mind Institute to guide difficult conversations with your kids without worrying them even more.

1. Encourage them to ask questions. Kids may have questions that they are afraid or nervous to ask. Encourage them to ask anything and help them feel heard.
2. Answer all of their questions. Do your best to answer all of your kids’ questions, even if they are complicated. It’s okay if your answer is “I don’t know.” Answering honestly will help to build trust.
3. Set the tone. Kids will engage and react to how you are feeling. Use this as an opportunity to convey a calm, resilient tone.
4. Be developmentally appropriate. Try to answer your children’s questions honestly without overwhelming them with too much information.
5. Take cues from your child. Encourage your kids to talk about the coronavirus, ask questions and share how they feel.
6. Take care of yourself. Show your child what it’s like to care for yourself. If you are feeling calm and confident about the situation, your child will too. Try these self-care strategies to take care of yourself while physical distancing.
7. Be reassuring. Reassure your kids that you and those around you are taking steps to be safe.

It’s important to support your children however you can during this difficult time. There are self-care and support strategies you can do with your kids at home to help them take care of their mental health and well-being during COVID-19.

If you are worried that your child may be experiencing overwhelming feelings of anxiety or depression, consider reaching out to a primary care physician or mental health professional for additional information and support.

Learn more about how you can #BeTheDifference During COVID-19.

This information was provided by the Child Mind Institute.