Here we have collected some age appropriate information, stories and resources from external websites that we have found really helpful for our own family. If you have any resources that you have used that have been helpful please to share with us here.
Here is some wonderful advice from Becky Bailey, the creator of our beloved FEELING BUDDIES and SAFE SPACE that we have utilised here at the Watering Whole:
“Kids don’t say, “Beloved parent, I’m having difficulty in my daily life. I don’t fully understand what’s happening, I miss my friends, I’m afraid someone I know is going to die and it feels like life will never be normal again.” Instead, they throw tantrums, become clingy, sulk, backtalk, refuse to do anything you ask, wet the bed, pick fights with siblings and suddenly forget how to do basic tasks they mastered years ago.
Whew! Let’s step back, take a few deep breaths and learn a little about your child’s brain: Safety is the brain’s most basic need, followed closely by connection. When we feel unsafe or disconnected, our brains downshift from the higher centers responsible for learning and problem solving, to the lower reactionary centers. That’s why all those challenging behaviors are popping up, and why a minor frustration is now Titanic in size.
We can help children (and ourselves) by creating a sense of safety, connecting, and cultivating a new sense of normal with these five tips:
- Our calm increases children’s calm.
- You are the most important Safe Place for your child.
- The brain requires safety and connection.
- Be intentional about cultivating both.
- Create a “new normal” together using routines and play.
- Provide helpful ways for children to contribute every day.
- Consciously choose to see the best in others and circumstances.” – Becky Bailey
You may also notice your child’s play changing….we certainly have!
I love this post from @parentingworks which says :
You’ve heard me say many times that play is children’s work. That means you may see some good psychological work as they play during these unprecedented times of quarantine. This means they are processing and integrating their experiences–trying to understand the new normal. In other words, don’t be afraid if you see these themes in their play. This is a sign that they are doing something healthy and important! So, lean in and let them play through the uncertainty, confusion, and change.
Additional External supports you can download:
These resources can be read to your child to start up a conversation around COVID-19 and their feelings. Remember to be honest and factual, honour the feelings that your child may have such as fear, sadness, anger saying, “Yes I understand you are feeling that way. It’s okay to feel that way”, but then also always reassure your child that they are safe and that home and family are their safe place!