The ever-changing situation of COVID-19 outbreaks and restrictions has an ongoing impact on all of our worlds. At the moment, COVID is very present in our community in Canberra, it is likely that your child knows someone who has had COVID, if they have not had it themselves. The increased case numbers combined with restrictions easing can lead to increased levels of anxiety for both parents and children. It is also possible that you or your child could be feeling pandemic fatigue after managing the situation for two years now.
If you are unsure of how to best support your child with COVID anxiety, here a few quick tips you can try:
- Reassure them that they are safe
- Let them talk about their worries
- Share your own coping skills
- Limit their news exposure
- Create a routine and structure
- Talk in age-appropriate terms.
There are some great free resources available if you are needing a little more support.
The Australian Childhood Foundation have great resources available such as story books that cover a range of COVID related subjects such as dealing with uncertainty and things we have lost and found in the pandemic. There are also activity ideas for families to stay connected. Link below:
Australian Childhood Foundation
Beyond Blue also have great tips for parents on how to talk with their children about COVID-19. If you want more information on this, check out the link below:
Emerging Minds also have a range of articles and podcasts focusing on Covid-19:
If you feel that your child could benefit from counselling support to manage in this difficult time, please know that the School Counsellors are available. Please feel free to contact us on SchoolCounsellor@oranaschool.com if you have an enquiry.
