Parenting in the time of Corona: Preschool and Kindergarten ages

As parents, the Coronavirus and its impact has taken many by surprise and has changed our reality and as such our parenting practices. While parents try to manage their own anxieties and logistical challenges, it is important to implement certain practices to maintain the emotional wellbeing of children during this time.

Children of different ages will face different challenges and over the coming days I will try and suggest some ideas and tips based on child developmental stages.

Today’s article focuses on children of preschool and kindergarten ages 

Information influx

At younger ages, parents may have relatively good control over information that children can access through the media. However, it is important to note, that children are perceptive and there is a very low likelihood that they are unaware of the situation. They are likely to overhear things. Whether leaving their homes unexpectedly, not being able to return to home after a vacation or not freely able to venture outdoors, children will understand that something is going on. It is essential that parents have a conversation that explains the new reality in language that is clear and simple, but in a way that instills a sense of security. Secretiveness and hiding things from young children is likely to create more uncertainty. All explanations should be connected to facts but explained in terms that are not overwhelming and can be clearly understood by children. Parents should also make sure to explain all the measures being taken to keep the child and loved ones safe.

For example, one potential explanation could be: “There is something called Coronavirus which has made some people sick but doctors are working really hard to make them better. In the meantime, we are making sure that our family and friends stay healthy and safe and so when we go outside we dress up with masks.” 

Some children might like the idea of being ninjas or masked superheros which makes them feel strong and empowered. Other children might like to decorate or personalize masks to allow them to feel connected to them (of course ensuring that nothing impairs the protective quality of the mask). I believe that using the actual name of the virus is important as children will undoubtedly hear it somewhere in their surroundings.

Maintaining normalcy

Children of these ages find comfort in routines so whether staying home or in a new surrounding, it is essential to create a new routine that children can settle in to. It is often helpful to use a board or paper to create a visual of the new routine for the child. Draw pictures (if the child is not yet reading) or write simple words for children to understand their routine.

Healthy activities and nutrition

As far as possible, it is important to ensure that children eat healthy, wholesome food and get plenty of exercise. If it is not possible to take children outside, online exercise programs for children are great and can include aerobic exercises, yoga lessons etc. for children which are suited to small spaces. Try and make sure your child has some physical activity at least 3 times a day,

Open conversation

Some children may take the change in reality with relative ease whilst others may feel unsettled. Whilst we may have a hunch as to how our child will react based on what we know about their personality, it is important not to make assumptions and their emotions may oscillate on a daily basis. Make sure to have some special time to chat with them daily and see how they are. It is not necessary to ask directly how they are feeling about the virus, but more generally, ask them how their day was, what they enjoyed, what they didn’t and leave open space for them to share.

Affection and quality time

Children often need comfort and affection during times of uncertainty so try and make sure to offer that type of support. In addition, for many parents, this may be an opportunity to take some time to partake in a special activity with the child that you may not have time to otherwise. Draw together, play some games, sing a song, prepare food. This can be very helpful in allowing the child to feel contained and close to their sense of support.

Watching out for warning signs

In times of difficulty, children of this age may exhibit behavioural changes. They may become more clingy or afraid of things that they are not usually. They may become angry or slightly aggressive. They may regress to behaviors common at younger ages (such as bed-wetting, thumb sucking). It is important not to become angry and frustrated if this happens as it is a natural expression of the emotional difficulty they may be experiencing. Instead, try to spend more time with them and try to encourage them to share any concerns or fears they may have. 

Parental support

As parents, seeking support for yourselves and outlets with other parents experiencing similar things is very helpful to ensure you don’t feel alone as you deal with this unfamiliar situation.