How to Support Your Child During Quarantine

If you are a parent, you most likely are wondering how to best support your child during this time of quarantine. Let me start off by saying, GIVE YOURSELF GRACE as parents and caregivers. This is uncharted territory for everyone and there was no way to prepare for what is happening.

Hang in there!

With that in mind, I wanted to create this blog for parents in hopes that it helps ease anxieties, creates understanding, and provides some peace in so much uncertainty.

I’m sure if you are reading this, you have seen some sort of shift in your child’s behavior. This is completely normal and to be expected. It’s important to remember that children’s anxiety and fears manifest quite differently than adults. Any concerning behavior may be an indication that there is some underlying feeling they are experiencing or thought that they are thinking, but don’t quite know how to articulate it.

As parents, it’s helpful to create a space for your child to feel open to expressing any fears or concerns they may have during this time. A few helpful ways to do so this are:

1) Find a comfortable setting and environment for your child
2) Ask them what questions or concerns they have, not assuming their fears are the same as yours. Let them ask first, so that you can answer appropriately and avoid creating any additional fears.
3) Be direct and concrete in your explanations
4) Think about your child’s age and deliver age appropriate information.
5) Provide alternative ways of communicating, such as drawing, writing, or puppets. Play is children language and toys are their words.
6) Plan a calming activity that you can do afterwards to help them shift their focus. Some examples are blowing bubbles, playing in a sand/sensory tray, or going for a walk.