What a crazy world we are living in right now. Who would have ever thought we would get to this point with restaurants and school closings and “social distancing”….it’s something you watch on tv- a sci-fi thriller starring George Clooney…but not something you would ever experience. Well here we are this new world of hand sanitizer and toilet paper shortages. If you’re like me, you’re trying your best not to let your anxiety hit as you attempt to explain this new world to an 8 year old.
So how do you talk to your kids about the virus? There’s a fine line between education and fear with this so it can be difficult to find that “happy medium”. With Ella, I have tried to keep it calm because she has the same anxiety issues I do. We have talked about how important it is to not spread any germs- which is what should be normal protocol this time of year regardless. So we know not to touch our faces (so hard not to do!!) or share cups. We can’t hug right now but we can still be kind to our friends and give virtual high fives. Beyond that though, how detailed do you go? The news scares me so certainly not that route. I want her to understand what’s going on but not create a fear or panic. Right now every cough or sneeze sends her into a mini anxiety attack- wondering if we are going to be ok.
If you’re feeling the same way with kids or grandkids, here is a great article about how to discuss the Coronavirus with children.
