The news is out, and people are worried with Swine Flu cases on the rise. Kids are learning about it too. They may feel worried and have questions. They may sense the anxiety that you feel as well.
Here are some tips to help your child with his/her feelings, build trust and resilience, and to keep the focus on prevention and solutions:
Open the lines of communication. Perhaps your child has outright told you that she is worried, or perhaps you suspect it due to behavioral changes. How and when does your child best communicate? Some children open up before bedtime. For some children, you can give crayons and blank paper, and find out more through art.
Listen and answer questions at his/her level. Your child may ask what the Swine Flu is, and you may be tempted to explain all about viruses and give the letter and numerical name for this one. An answer that it makes people feel sick like you felt when you had the flu may be all she wants to know. You can often find out what your child wants to know by listening and asking some clarifying questions.
Let your child know that you will do your best to keep him safe. Children need to feel protected.
Let your child know that sometimes bad things happen. Painting a rosy picture all of the time is just unrealistic. Your child will learn at some point along the way that bad things do happen. Talk with her about others whom are sick if she asks. Teach how you cope with these situations. Perhaps it is through prayer or sending positive thoughts their way. What provides you solace? Pass your beliefs onto your child.
Get your own anxiety in check before a having a discussion with your child. Kids can sense your anxiety, and your anxiety will increase his fears. It is okay to feel anxious, and you can share that you feel concerned too. However, kids need to feel safe and taken care of, and to have someone that can provide leadership and guidance.
Teach your child what he can do. The CDC provides clear guidelines for preventing influenza. Wash hands with your child. Have him sing his ABCs while doing so to make sure he does it long enough. Show him how to wash in between fingers. When you teach your child, he will feel more in control.
Allow your child to feel her feelings. You may not be as concerned as she is and may be quick to say, "Don’t worry about it." However, it is confusing to children when their feelings are not validated. It makes them question themselves and their abilities. Respond with empathy: "It is scary to learn about something like this that you have not heard of before." Then you can move on to talk with her about the facts and the safety precautions you plan to take.
Situations like this provide opportunities to teach children how to manage anxiety and stress at an early age. It is a life skill that they can carry with them.
