We’re living in an unprecedented time, and the Stay At Home Rules look set to continue beyond the initial period of several weeks and at least for the short term. It is undoubtedly difficult for parents and children alike to get used to this new temporary normal. The effects may potentially be felt more by children with separated parents who are used to thriving on the routine of dividing their time between their parents’ households.
If your child, or a child you care for, is feeling anxious, and you’re not sure how to broach the subject of the continuing coronavirus pandemic with them, here are some resources we’re aware of that could help you to support your children:
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides some helpful advice on how to talk to children about coronavirus.
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Young Minds have published great resources and ideas about things adults and young people can do to manage any stress and anxiety they may experience in relation to coronavirus. They also have a mental health advice line available for parents operating between 09:30am-4pm, Monday- Friday: 0808 802 5544
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The Anna Freud Centre has also put together this video aimed at children and young people. Perhaps take a look at the video and see if it would be useful for your children.
It’s also really important to look after your own mental health. There may be many uncertainties you are be concerned about currently and it’s important to put on your own safety mask first, as it were, to ensure you’re feeling well in order to properly support your children. Here are some further resources that we’ve come across that might help you:
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Every Mind Matters provides tips on how to maintain your emotional wellbeing whilst staying at home – their guidance can be accessed here.
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The Mind website provides useful information about how to cope if you feel anxious about coronavirus, how to manage staying well at home and taking care of your mental health and wellbeing.
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The Anna Freud Centre has also put together this video aimed at parents.
If you’re a parent who’s concerned about the impact of the Government’s measures to try and stop the spread of coronavirus, take a look at our guidance. The guidance produced by Cafcass (here) and the President of the Family Division (here) is also really helpful.