Midtown parents, how do you lead your family when things are changing so rapidly that the announcements that came out yesterday from the White House or Centers for Disease Control are obsolete today? We all know that children thrive on structure, but how do you give that to them when it feels like chaos all around you?
We’ve pulled together resources that we think are helpful, along with a summary of each. They range from the exclusively spiritual to emotional to practical. As usual, stay in touch with your LifeGroup and let us know if you have any needs by submitting them here. As well, consider single people in your life who may count it a blessing to come help you out!
With all resource recommendations, remember to keep your discernment meter up. Eat the meat and spit out the bones. Take the helpful truth and prayerfully apply it in a way that is most fruitful for you.
Overall Tips
Maintain as much of a normal routine as possible
Limit how much you and your children look at the news and social media
Your kids will mirror how you react
Refocus the attention on God’s power and love
Pray with your kids
Encourage them to talk to you about their worries and fears
Christian Resources
How to Talk to Children About the Coronavirus, The Gospel Coalition
Three questions to ask kids:
1. Why do Christians not have to fear death?
2. Why should Christians still be safe, responsible, and wise about the Coronavirus?
3. Why can Christians live in this dangerous world without fear?
The author walks through the answers to these questions and finishes the article with this:
“Whether through the closing of their school or information they’ve heard in the media, your child will learn of the coronavirus’s dangers. Proactively point them to the Lord’s good and gracious character, along with the gospel’s sweet and sure promises, and you will comfort them amid this present crisis. And it can prepare them for life’s afflictions down the road.”
Talking with Kids About the CoronaVirus, Focus on the Family
Keep calm and communicate
Provide reassurance
Stick to the facts (e.g. Centers for Disease Control and National Institutes of Health)
Use this time for family fun
God is still in control
Talking Guides for Times of Crisis by Age
Preschool: Help them feel secure
Elementary: Validate their feelings
Middle School: Strengthen their resilience
High School: Encourage without adding pressure
Get the facts
Validate your child’s fears
Limit media coverage
Discuss disruptions
Maintain perspective
Create a schedule...but hang on to it loosely
Set up your classroom
Use your kids’ currency (referring to consequences/rewards)
Be aware of your kids’ learning style
Don’t be afraid to fail
Be there for your kids
Parenting Well in the Midst of a Pandemic, Crossroads Church, Cincinnati, OH
Take a deep breath
Their concerns are real
Be a detective
Talk with them about specifics as they’re ready
Be developmentally appropriate
Turn off the news
Hold onto routines as much as possible
Don’t play the blame game
Fill their minds with God’s truth
Share with friends in need
Be Jesus to your friends, neighbors, and family
How to Support Kids With Anxiety During the Coronavirus, Key Ministry
Model the response you would desire from your child
Consider involving your kids in your family’s preparations and response to the virus
Monitor exposure to attention-grabbing stories in the media
Plan ahead by identifying lots of books and activities that can occupy an anxious child’s mind
Use videoconferencing technology to connect with relatives and friends
Have a 90-day supply of prescription medication on hand
Model faith in action
How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus, Pastor Ron Brooks
Educate yourself
Turn the TV off
Listen
Be honest
Ask them how they feel
Pray
Additional Resources
Talking to Children about COVID-19: A Parent Resource, National Association of School Psychologists
Model good health practices to them
Assure them that adults are working hard to make sure that everyone is safe
Maintain a normal routine as much as possible
Monitor television and social media use
Know that your children might be in need of extra care and attention at this time
Talking with Children: Tips during Infectious Disease Outbreaks, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Tips broken down by age group
Listen to their concerns
Let them ask questions
Encourage positive activities
Spend more time with them than usual, even if it’s just for a short time
How to Keep Your Kids Busy and Learning If Their School Closes, Time
Start with their school routine
Dedicate time for play
Schedule in some easy indoor activities
Build in reading
Go to recess
Make a screen time routine
Activity Resources
Free Printable Bible Coloring Sheets, Ministry-to-Children
Worship Song Dance-A-Long Youtube Playlist, CJ and Friends
Be Strong and Take Courage, Kids’ Playlist, Crossroads Church, Cincinnati, OH
List of Education Companies Offering Free Subscriptions Due to School Closings, Amazing Educational Resources
35 Activity Ideas for Kids Stuck at Home, Pop Sugar