How to help children cope during this time

NORWALK — Many parents and caregivers are struggling with how to help their children manage the COVID-19 situation. Below are some things parents and caregivers can do to help children cope during this time. • Keep your family's schedule consistent when it comes to bedtimes, meals, and exercise. • Limit your child's exposure to media coverage of the event. • Make time to do things at home that have made you and your family feel better in other stressful situations, such as reading, watching movies, listening to music, playing games, exercising, or engaging in religious activities from home. • Have children participate in distance learning opportunities that may be offered by their schools or other institutions/organizations. • Recognize that feelings such as boredom, loneliness, fear, anxiety, stress, and panic are normal reactions to stressful situations. • Reassure children that they are safe. Let them know that it is okay if they feel upset. • Practice patience and tolerance. • Reinforce with children the importance of washing their hands often, getting enough sleep, and coughing into a tissue. • Remember, you are a role model for your children. How you handle this stressful situation can affect how your children manage their worries. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so they can learn how to cope. • Connect with friends and family through electronic communication. If you need additional support, contact the Huron County Support line at 567-743-7155 or for a crisis, contact the Huron County Crisis Hotline at 800-826-1306. For additional resources, visit huroncountycovid.com.