In recent days, we have had to deal with a new reality due to the spread of the coronavirus. The new guidelines change the whole routine.
The kids don't come to kindergarten, but this isn't another vacation.
Some children raise concerns and ask questions, "Why is there no kindergarten?" "Why are there people with masks?"
And kids who don't ask but definitely feel that something's going on, something's changed and they don't know why,
Sometimes they imagine a horror scenario from all the pieces of information they hear.
That's why it's our job to explain, mediate and reassure our children, so how do we do that?
Just before we approach to calm the child it is important that we calm ourselves , the parent is the one who presents the child with a mirror of the interpretation of reality , it is important that we pay attention to our reactions and statements , the child observes our reaction and from there he concludes if what happens is under control or poses a real threat.
- Adjust the information to the child's age and level of understanding.
Giving children the minimum amount of information that provides them with understanding, it is important to answer in a short way not to dodge an answer and not to elaborate too much but to allow the child to ask questions, listen and understand what he already knows (sometimes it is much more than we think).
The wording should be in the child's language and in a way that he understands what is said.
For example: coronavirus – a virus that causes fever and cough a disease similar to the flu in which fluids and coughs.
- Accept the child's feelings – do not eliminate the child's feelings , let the fears be legitimization
- Sedative – It is important to strengthen the child's sense of security and protection
"The doctors know how to handle it."
"Children rarely contract the virus"
- Powers and ways of coping – our body is strong and knows how to deal with the virus. Children connect with forces in the body – we have an immune system whose job it is to "attack the bad guys"
Maintaining hygiene – washing hands with soap escapes the bacteria,
This way, the children will feel strong and capable of coping.
- Optimism and hope – broadcasting to children that it will be ok – will have a happy ending and we will get back to normal.
- It is recommended not to expose early childhood children to news, photos and videos on TV
Exposure to news increases children's level of anxiety.
This is a challenging time and it is also a wonderful opportunity to be together and strengthen the family connection.
With all the changes it is important to maintain a routine, a routine that gives the child a feeling of confidence and calms the anxiety – try to maintain a regular agenda with maintaining regular sleep and eating hours , producing regular anchors during the day like : joint game time.
The entire A.I.A. team is available for questions and consultation.