‘TALK CALMLY WITHOUT AVOIDING REALITY’

CLINICAL psychologist MARK SMYTH advises parents to talk to children about coronavirus – but in a calm, measured way without avoiding the reality.

In an age of increasing anxiety levels in children, a worldwide pandemic will not ease their anxiety.

We know that children have really good imaginations and when they take a story they can turn it into something much bigger and scarier than reality.

What not to say:

‘You’ve nothing to worry about’/ ‘Don’t be silly, you’ll never get the virus’/‘I’ll never get the virus.’

What to say/do:

Acknowledge their fear as understandable, admitting that you’re a little worried about it too, and praise them for sharing their worries with you.

Acknowledge disappointment if an event (like the St Patrick’s Day parade, a concert etc) has to be cancelled, but emphasise the importance of people staying healthy, while adding that other big events will come up again in the future.

Try to keep other aspects of their normal daily routine the same as much as possible. When we get really worried about something we fear the unknown and what it might bring. The more routine there is when other aspects of life are unknown, the more reassuring it is for children.

What if they worry about themselves or us getting the virus?

Acknowledge that it is a scary thing and it is sad when people die from sickness.

Tell them that if you/they get sick, the doctors will make sure they get really good help.

Also reassure them if they’re feeling ill that it doesn’t mean it’s the coronavirus, and that you know what to look out for and when to call the doctor if that is what is needed.

Finally, reassure them that although they have to spend some time at home/out of school you will plan lots of fun things/games you can do in the house together.