Adults are feeling restless, frustrated, and overloaded by information. And while children may not feel overwhelmed by constant coronavirus updates, they know there’s a crisis going on.
To help with that, Child Trends has published an in-depth look at ways to help children in these troubled times. “Resources for Supporting Children’s Emotional Well-being during the COVID-19 Pandemic” brings together recommendations from trauma experts at Child Trends and the Child Trauma Training Center at the University of Massachusetts.
- Understand that reactions to the pandemic may vary.
- Ensure the presence of a sensitive and responsive caregiver.
- Social distancing should not mean social isolation.
- Provide age-appropriate information.
- Create a safe physical and emotional environment by practicing the 3 R’s: reassurance, routines, and regulation.
- Keep children busy.
- Increase children’s self-efficacy.
- Create opportunities for caregivers (which may mean yourself!) to take care of themselves.
- Seek professional help if children show signs of trauma that do not resolve relatively quickly.
- Emphasize strengths, hope, and positivity.
Read the article for detail on each of these points and for a list of resources for children, parents/caregivers, educators/childcare providers, and communities.