Talk to our Children during this Coronavirus Worldwide Crisis

Coronavirus Worldwide Crisis. It is hard to imagine that any parent would be prepared to face this worldwide crisis, it is hard to believe what has unfolded so quickly all around the world. Not only do we have to deal with the fear of this threatening COVID-19 disease but we also have to worry about other important matters such as our finances, jobs, what the future holds ahead and most importantly our family and children. Earlier today while we had our family Sunday lunch we continued to discuss with much amazement the possibilities and what our humanity is facing. While my husband and I address our two sons now 17 years old and our 10-year-old daughter, we learned how calm and aware they are and although they are intelligent and calm about the subject, we found that there are still many misconceptions they were believing that we needed to clear. They are young, vulnerable to be easily influenced by their peers and of course by what they may see or hear on social media. Things like, mom you are being overprotective definitely came up! But if you have been reading my blog for a while, by now you know I am all about empowering others with information so you can make wise informed choices. So that’s exactly what my husband and I did and as we opened the COVID-19 virus conversation and this worldwide crisis.

So how do we talk to our children about all of this? Here are some tips I have implemented and found helpful:

Assess what your child knows

This is very important as they most likely have already gathered information through their circle of friends, social media or adults around. Remember I mentioned our Sunday lunch? During this time my beautiful baby girl said that a friend from school told her that this virus can be killed with rubbing alcohol. While this may be helpful to add to a good hygiene protocol, I encouraged her to always verify her source as she learns new information to make sure that what she’s hearing is indeed correct. I proceeded to explain the facts and she very quickly understood.

Deal with your own anxiety

Wow, this one is quite a challenge… at least it was for me! Isn’t it incredible how quickly we go to the what if’s scenarios? I had to stop myself cold as I was finding myself already imagining horrible and quite devasting events in my mind as a reaction to the panic and fear we are ALL facing. By now, you probably know how much I believe in God and leaning on Him and recognizing that He’s FAITHFUL quickly provided a sense of relief in me. Staying present helped me to stay focus on what I immediately needed to take care of instead of letting myself get all worked up with possibilities. I am not saying we shouldn’t plan ahead but we must pace ourselves without panic. If you ask me, fear is the real enemy, I know that making choices based in fear will never lead to good outcomes. See what is happening with toilet paper worldwide?? :))

Acknowledge your child’s fears

Although we may not hear it from them it doesn’t mean it is not happening. Our goal should be to keep them informed to ease their fears and not let their imagination run wild. Understanding the facts and what they need to do can provide some sense of control and expectation to quiet any fear.

Talk at their age level

Of course, this is obvious but I must remind you to keep it PG when needed. It is absurd to scare a child with unnecessary facts that can only fuel uncertainty and fear.

Emphasized about good hygiene

This is actually extremely important because as you know “Prevention is the best cure.” In my recent article “How to Fight the Coronavirus Naturally” I share many tips as to what you need to implement immediately to protect yourself and your family. Your kids can learn and implement it right away. To learn more click here

Keep a routine

This is crucial especially if your child’s school has shut down. Creating a productive and structured routine will be helpful for you and them. Keeping it predictable will keep them engaged and healthy.

Keep conversations going

Letting them know that we love them and care very much about them is vital. Let them know you will keep them informed as more information becomes available. This will preserve and reassure their confidence in your communication and build trust in you.

Prayer Time

I must admit I should do this more often with them, as I know prayer changes things, it purifies the soul and it cuts off all fear from the root. This is an additional opportunity to surrender all anxiety and fear to the Lord and I guarantee you unexplainable peace will overwhelm you home.

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope you have found this short but concise article helpful. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I strongly believe we will finish this race in victory.

Stay strong, stay safe, stay healthy. God bless!

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33