We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to our episode sponsor, reStickity®. Their innovative, mess-free reusable sticker sets allow families to personalize hospital spaces with familiar photos and comforting images, helping bring a sense of home to the hospital. To...
Episode 129 | How to Explain Covid-19 to Kids [2nd MOST DOWNLOADS]
Podcast Show Notes
This episode originally aired in March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. This topic is so important and rightfully so, it is our 2nd most downloaded episode of all time. When it comes to COVID-19, how we inform our children is incredibly important. If you’re wondering how we can talk to our kids about COVID-19 when we as adults still don’t know exactly what’s happening, you’re not alone. This episode covers suggestions for age-appropriate language to use as well as general considerations to keep in mind as you talk to your children about COVID-19. Children are looking to adults for honest, easy-to-digest information. Give a listen to learn how to break it down into a way that they can understand.
[3:20] Katie explains that children and adolescents crave a strong compassionate leader who establishes boundaries
[6:00] It’s important to remind children that a lot of the information they hear may not be factual
[8:53] Katie explains to empower your children by validating what they are already doing
[9:19] She shares how hand-washing is an easy practical way fuel empowerment when discussing COVID-19
[10:10] It is ok to admit that there are unknowns about COVID-19 and acknowledging that we don’t know the answers and that is ok
[11:06] Katie shares the importance of setting a good example.You want to model behavior that your children will follow
[12:00] Offer to have a check in with your child if they are feeling worried
[12:22] Katie’s key to success is to be a strong and compassionate leader and exhibit the behavior you want your child to have. Be a buffer!
Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here.
Parents, download our free parent starter kit.
When you download our starter kit, you’ll learn how to:
- Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match
- Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious
- Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure
The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn’t send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you’re facing.
Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here.
Shop for your CLOC gear here.
Catch up with CLOC on Instagram, Facebook and meet Katie for a Q+A every Monday at 10 AM CST.
You Might Also Like…
257: The NICU Dad Experience: A father’s view from the NICU [REPOST]-Alex’s Story
What happens when your world changes with a single phone call? In this powerful reposted episode, NICU dad and advocate Alex Zavala shares his emotional journey of fatherhood after his daughter was born at just 27 weeks. From the emergency C-section and NICU stay to...
256: Helping Kids Swallow Pills:Tips and tricks for Parents from a Child Life Specialist -Adina’s Story
Learning to swallow pills can be a major milestone—and a big challenge—for many kids. In this episode, certified child life specialist Adina Levitan joins host Katie Taylor to break down the myths, fears, and best practices behind teaching children how to confidently...