Protecting children during the house-quarantine
As public conversations around Coronavirus ( COVID-19) increase , Feelings like anxiety, stress and uncertainty are felt especially strongly by children of all ages, who are going to need to feel loved and supported now more than ever.
Some psychologists recommend that children should be dealt with during the quarantine house period , as part of precautionary measures to address the Coronavirus, in a special manner and prevent them from listening to the misinformation circulating about the Coronavirus that may lead to anxiety.
“If you do not occupy your children with some activities, they will occupy you with their fears.” This message was addressed by a psychiatrist-WHO consultant Dr. Tayseer Hassoon to the parents.
He noted the importance of practicing healthy various habits and activities for children during the quarantine house such as explaining information related to the Coronavirus , converting cleaning and sterilization of the house into an amusing activity accompanied by music , drawing pictures of viruses and microbes, and explaining the benefits and methods of using personal protective tools..
Dr. Hassoon told SANA that parents should control their feelings well, pay attention to their reactions and listen to their children’s fears and speak to them kindly, pointing to the importance of not circulating rumors or misinformation in front of children because their fear and anxiety multiply in cases of death cases.
As a result of the quarantine measures such as school closure and restrictions on movements which disrupt children’s routine , Dr. Hassoon indicates that parents must plan enjoyable group activities inside the home in order to develop children’s skills and improve family relations.
It is the responsibility of the parents, according to Dr. Hassoon, to explain to children what is happening in a way that is appropriate for their ages, how to reduce the risk of infection and stay safe in simple and understandable words.
He stressed the importance of not ignoring the children’s questions without answers assuming that they do not realize what is going on and providing information about what can happen in a reassuring manner.
On the reactions of children, Dr. Hassoun explained that they differ from one child to another taking into consideration that children often take their emotional interpretations from the important adults in their lives, so the response of adults to the crisis is very important.
Dr. Hassoun advises parents to present the facts in a simple and appropriate way , which is suitable for the children’s ages and sharing them in everything that happens in a way that is compatible with their capabilities .
Rawaa Ghanam