I write to you today to share some resources on how you can assist your child with their worries associated with coronavirus.

Across Australia and the world people are facing an unprecedented situation as our health authorities and governments act to effectively manage the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus).  The coronavirus pandemic comes as many Australians are still feeling the impact of recent bushfires, floods and drought. 

Although children are considered to be in a lower risk category, this does not protect them from being exposed to news reports on television, radio or social media. Watching and listening to media and social media coverage and commentary can be confronting and confusing and also at times distressing for children as well as us as adults. As a parent it is important to reassure your child, dispel any myths or untruths, and help them feel informed, allowing them to focus more on positive messages. Parents can involve their children in planning and preparedness at home, assigning jobs and roles and teaching them ways to look after themselves. Having this sense of purpose and control can help alleviate a child’s worries. However, despite your best efforts, some children may still present with some issues. Knowing what to look for will help you provide your child with the support they need.

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg is a Child Psychologist  who appears on Sunrise and other morning TV shows regularly.  Michael has recently produced a special report in the form of a short video for parents about coronavirus. This video is well worth a watch! https://schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-coronavirus

I have also included a number of sites and useful resources below that are worthwhile to visit

• Birdie and the Big Sickness is a resource for supporting younger children and has been developed by the QLD Centre for Perinatal & Infant Mental Health – available via this link.https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/chq/our-services/mental-health-services/qcpimh/natural-disaster-resources/storybooks/ 
• Emerging Minds: Talking to children about natural disasters, traumatic events and worries about the future https://vimeo.com/394049129
• Centre for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html Please note the support phone numbers on this site are NOT for Australia, however there are some great links to child-appropriate resources for explaining natural disasters (including pandemic) and supporting children afterwards
• SBS: what to tell your kids about Coronavirus https://www.sbs.com.au/news/insight/8-tips-on-what-to-tell-your-kids-about-coronavirus
• Headspace: How to cope with Stress related to COVID 19 may be appropriate for older children and teenagers https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/

Kids helpline has some great information what is age appropriate for little and big kids (as well as parents) https://kidshelpline.com.au/. This may be a useful time to introduce your child to this fantastic resource. Head to Health is a great place to start when looking for online resources to assist is worrying times. 

Please consider spending some time reviewing these resources, if concerned about how your child is travelling with this situation consider letting their teacher know and, if need be chat with your GP.

Luke Holmes

College Counsellor