3 Ways to Support Your Child or Teen During the Covid-19 Pandemic

1.     Stick to a Schedule: During times of stress and uncertainty, children and teens benefit tremendously from having a predictable schedule.  Daily routines have been significantly disrupted over the past six months, and this can be very stressful for children to navigate.  Creating a daily schedule with clear time slots and descriptions will help to restore a sense of predictability during this challenging time.  Be sure to place the schedule in a location where it is visible to all family members!

2.     Put Your Mask on First: Literally and figuratively!  During times of increased stress, it is important for you as caregiver to take care of your own needs.  Make sure you are getting enough rest, eating properly, and attending doctor’s appointments when necessary.  This will ensure that you are able to meet the needs of your child as they arise. We cannot support others until we take care of ourselves.

3.     Provide Clear Information: Your child will likely have a lot of questions about the pandemic, and you can support them by providing clear, developmentally appropriate information. For younger kids, be sure to avoid colloquialisms and jargon. Teens will typically reach out to friends and peers initially for support - but be sure let them know you are available for them to come to you with their questions and concerns.