While kids may not be able to fully grasp the reality of the pandemic situation, they are certainly affected and stressed by the restrictions and new guidelines that limit their movement. However, as young children are quite resilient, adaptive, and bright, they can cope so long as there are adults present capable to guide them and support them.
What are the Signs of a Child Suffering from Coronavirus Stress?
Children aged 0-5 are in the prime stage for development. Caregivers should carefully note whenever a child seems to have regressed in their development.
Signs that indicate a child suffers from coronavirus stress includes
- Thumbsucking
- Bedwetting
- Unnatural clinginess to parents, guardians, or other caregivers
- Nightmares
- Loss of appetite
- Withdrawal or lack of interest in socializing with other children
- Irritability or more frequent tantrums
When young children exhibit these signs, it is a way for them to communicate emotions they feel which they may not know to express yet. Having a caregiver such as childcare providers become a source of reassurance and guidance can help kids overcome their stress.
Ways to Help Kids Cope with Coronavirus Stress
Childcare providers play an important role in ensuring children’s development isn’t stunted by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. As young children may experience the signs and symptoms of coronavirus stress, childcare providers have a great opportunity in helping these young children in their care overcome their stress, adapt to the current situation, and continue their development.
Be calm, positive and reassuring.
Young children always try to model their own behavior based on their surroundings and adults present.
When they see you as a calm and reassuring adult, it will help children understand that there is nothing to worry about.
Letting them know that “adults” around them are working hard to protect them against the virus will reassure them that everything is okay.
Answer their questions in a way they will understand.
Use simple words, demonstration, facial expressions, and reactions to help children understand the events that are unfolding.
Use their toys to explain situations they might ask about but always keep in mind to present it in a positive manner.
Use positive reinforcement whenever they follow hygiene protocols such as washing or sanitizing their hands, keeping their masks on, or observing physical distancing.
Training children to adhere to best practices to reduce the probability of contracting COVID-19 by using compliments and praises helps children associate positive emotions with doing hygiene-related activities.
Apply cognitive behavioral therapy.
As kids are still discovering the way their emotions work and affect the nature of their thoughts, cognitive behavioral therapy can do wonders in helping the child see the pandemic situation in a new light, and develop a mental skill that will help them throughout their life.
One cognitive behavioral therapy you can do to help young children express what their feeling is through a puppet show.
As children use the characters as a medium, they may well be able to more confidently express what they’re feeling.
Have a regular emotional wellbeing checkup.
Always ask the children how they are feeling. Let them know you are always there whenever they need someone to talk to.
If direct conversations are too uncomfortable for the child, doing activities such as arts and crafts or games together can help them feel more at ease in opening up.
Childcare providers play an important role in helping children cope with the new normal. While the pandemic might linger longer than expected, helping children manage their emotions and providing them encouragement and reassurance will help them make the best of their situation.
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