Addressing Students’ Worry & Anxiety about Coronavirus COVID-19 

Children and teens react to anxiety and stress differently than adults. Some may react right away; others may show signs that they are having a difficult time much later.

Overhearing adult conversations about events happening in their communities, watching or reading the news can make them feel scared, confused, or anxious, in much the same way as adults. This is true even if they live far from where the outbreak is taking place and are at little or no risk of getting sick. 

As parents/caregivers, the best way you can support their wellness and healing is by staying calm. Children will react to what you say and how you say it. Make yourself available to listen and talk. Let them know that adults at home and school are taking care of their health and safety. Pay attention to what children see or hear on television, radio or online. Consider reducing the amount of screen time focused on the Coronavirus. Too much information on one topic can lead to fear, worry, and anxiety. 

• Understanding Anxiety in Children (in English and Español) Download PDF
• How Can I support Myself and My Child During Covid-19 Download Word Document
  
  

Below are some helpful articles on talking to your children about the Coronavirus Pandemic:

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope With the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/fact-sheet/outbreak_factsheet_1.pdf

Talking With Children:
Tips For Caregivers, Parents, And Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4886.pdf

Talking to Kids about the Coronavirus https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/

Further Resources https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XZKQSYKZxOgKkhVh_iWUTPOT-G7nJFdD1XObUJhyKB8/edit?usp=sharing

Tips for Online Learning Download PDF