Living with the unknown can be anxiety provoking and frightening for adults at the best of times. For children, who are still developing their emotional intelligence skills, living with and tolerating uncertainty, may not be easy to manage.

There are many steps that parents and or caregivers can take to support a child or teen during this unusual and disruptive time. Based on an article written by the experts at childmind.org we have put together some tips on how to share information about COVID-19. Keeping children in the dark about what is happening may further increase anxiety; we feel open conversation can help to reduce the fear and give space for a child or teen to express what is on their mind regarding the situation. This verbal sharing can be very powerful and strengthen their sense of connection to their parent or caregiver.

At Art as Therapy, we believe that we all have an inherent power (our kid client’s call it their super power) that is ever present and has the potential to help us overcome any difficulty or challenge we face. We can tap into this power through simple action.

This could be by engaging in a frequent hand washing routine; practicing social distancing, cleaning or organizing toys and belongings, baking, sending video notes to family members or friends, creating a safety fort with objects around the house or creating art.

Inviting and encouraging children to take action (however small) can help them to feel empowered and strong. This feeling of “I can” can alleviate big feelings like anxiety and fear. Together we can use our individual power to collectively navigate the unknown. We are in this together! We can get through this time!

Adapted from an article written by https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/