Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Summer 2020

COMMUNITY PEDIATRICS Here’s how to calm coronavirus concerns Parents: Be honest, calm and reassuring. We’re all concerned about the potential risks of COVID-19, and it’s fine to acknowledge that. But if you panic, your kids will too. Reassure them that many adults are working hard to keep them safe. Younger kids, especially, may need to hear that from you. Fight fear with facts. For instance, you can share with your kids, in age-appropriate terms they can understand, that: » » Not everyone will get sick, and some will only have a mild illness. » » COVID-19 seems to spread like cold and flu germs—through close contact with someone who has the infection, such as when that person coughs or sneezes. It also may spread when people touch surfaces contaminated with COVID-19. Tell them how to stay healthy. We don’t have a COVID-19 vaccine yet (scientists are working on that). In the meantime, knowing how they can help prevent COVID-19 may help your kids feel less anxious. Here are some of the best ways to do that: » » Don’t share food or drinks. » » Wash your hands often. Scrub with soap and water for 20 seconds. LETTHEM KNOWTHEY CAN ASK ABOUT COVID-19, BUT DON’T FORCE CONVERSATIONS Here are some tips, courtesy of the National Association of School Nurses and other medical experts, for chatting with children: TALKING POINTS With the new coronavirus (COVID-19) spreading in the U.S., your children may be hearing a lot about the outbreak fromTV, the internet or other kids. And some of what they hear may frighten them. That’s understandable—recent headlines may have you anxious too. But you can help calm any concerns your children have by talking with them about COVID-19. 6 VITALITY Summer 2020