Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

As the COVID-19 situation evolves, it can be difficult for children to understand the changes made across society.

The CDC has created guidance to help parents and guardians have conversations with their children.

• Remain calm and reassuring. Children react to both what you say and how you say it.
• Make yourself available to talk and listen. Let them know that they can come to you with questions.
• Avoid language that might blame others and lead to stigma.
• Monitor their media consumption. Reducing screen time may help reduce anxiety.
• Give them honest and accurate information. Share truthful and appropriate information for the age and developmental level of the child. Explain that some stories online may be based on rumors or inaccurate information.
• Teach children about reducing the spread of germs. Remind them to stay away from people who are sick. Teach them about coughing or sneezing into their elbow or a tissue. Get them into good handwashing habits.

Learn more about talking to your children about COVID-19 through the CDC website.