November 20th is an important day for children around the world. First celebrated in 1954, the World’s Children Day aims to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare. However, this year may be an unpleasant year for them. The happiness when they are playing with friends, spending a weekend at a playground, or the fun of buying snacks is now limited because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unwittingly, many children might feel stressed or even depressed due to having to stay at home for months. Interaction restrictions must be done in times of a pandemic, forcing them to stay at home; hence they lose time to be able to play outside.
As this becomes the pandemic concern, UNICEF, as the UN international agency that deals with children, has invited parents and various parties to take advantage of this pandemic by reorganizing their time with children.
“This year, the COVID-19 crisis has in a child rights crisis. The costs of the pandemic for children are immediate and, if unaddressed, may last a lifetime,” UNICEF said.
The situations, which suddenly changed can be very frightening for children. So, it is important for parents to explain to children about the pandemic and ensure them to feel safe.
There are various ways that parents can do to help children feel more comfortable and avoid stress during this pandemic. Here are five of them, as reported by healthychildren.org:
- Answer questions about the pandemic simply & honestly.Talk with children about any frightening news they hear. It is OK to say people are getting sick, but remind them that following safety steps like hand washing, wearing cloth face coverings, and staying home more will help your family stay healthy.
- Recognize your child’s feelings.Calmly say, for example, “I can see that you are upset because you can’t have a sleepover with your friends right now.” Guiding questions can help older children and teens work through issues. (“I know it is disappointing not to be able to do some of the things you did before the pandemic. What are some other ways you can have fun with your friends?”)
- Keep in touch with loved ones.Children may also worry about a grandparent who is living alone or a relative or friend with an increased risk of getting COVID-19. When safe, physically distanced visits aren’t possible, video chats can help ease their anxiety.
- Model how to manage feelings.Talk through how you are managing your own feelings. (“I am worried about Grandma since I can’t go visit her. I will put a reminder on my phone to call her in the morning and the afternoon until it is safe to see her.”)
- Tell your child before you leavethe house for work or essential errands. In a calm and reassuring voice, tell them where you are going, how long you will be gone, when you will return, and that you are taking steps to stay safe.
- Look forward.Tell them that scientists are working hard to figure out how to help people who get sick, how to prevent it, and that things will get better.
- Offer extra hugsand say, “I love you” more often.