How to Talk to Your Child About Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The world is a little uneasy because of coronavirus (COVID-19). And chances are your kids are hearing about it. That’s why it’s important to make sure they get the right information. It’s also important they hear it from you. Here are some helpful ways to talk about what is happening.

Find Out What Your Child Knows
The best place to start is by asking questions. Asking questions gives you a great chance to find out how much they know, or to find out if they’re hearing the wrong information. Some kids may want to talk, while others might not seem interested. That’s okay. The most important thing is to make sure they know they can come to you.

Questions you might ask:

• What have you heard about coronavirus?
• Is there anything you don’t understand?
• Do you have any questions about it?

Offer Comfort and Honesty
It’s natural for kids to worry, especially if you are. When you talk about coronavirus, speak calmly and try not to sound upset. It’s also okay if you don’t know everything. Use their questions as a chance to find answers together. Most important, allow them to share their thoughts and feelings.

Help Kids Feel in Control
To help ease fears, teach your kids that there are things they can do to feel safe and in control. Some of those things include getting lots of sleep, washing their hands often, eating healthy, and calling friends and loved ones. It’s also good to talk about all the things doctors and scientists are doing to help people or create a vaccine.

Keep Talking
It’s important to check in with your kids often. Talking with them about coronavirus is a great way to help them learn more about their own bodies. It’s also a great way to help them better understand the world around them.

To keep the conversation going, you might consider asking:

• What do you think about these events?
• How do you think these things happen?

Did you know Vivida offers behavior health services to support children and adults? Visit vividahealth.com/getting-care or call 844-243-5131 or TTY:711 to learn more.

Vivida Health is a Managed Care Plan with a Florida Medicaid Contract. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the Managed Care Plan. Limitations, copayments and/or restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change. Vivida Health is a Medicaid Health Plan serving Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties.