PreK Corner intends to educate and intervene on behalf of young to adolescent children by providing communication, knowledge and strategies that may prevent and lessen the effect of unhealthy interruptions in their lives. You may ask questions and request topics about children birth through school-age by using my contact information provided at the end of each column.
This column is intended to share what I deem is one of the most important things to remember during the novel coronavirus pandemic. Also known as COVID-19, this disease is prevalent over the whole country and parts of the world.
The most important thing that I desire to share with you is to communicate, especially with young children. Children of all ages know something serious is happening around them. We must not take it for granted that children know and understand enough about what is happening to keep them from becoming stressed and depressed. They have noticed how their lives and daily routines have changed. We must talk to them about things such as why their school had to close temporarily, why you are stocking up on food and toiletries, why restaurants are closing and even why they cannot visit their friends’ homes at this time.
As discussed in my previous columns, keep in mind who your child is and how they respond to things they may not understand. It is also significant to communicate at the child’s age and stage of developmental understanding. When explained, children can understand the seriousness of what is happening around them. Communication may prevent unnecessary anxiety which could cause the child to have thoughts that result in confusion and panic. No matter what age children are, parents and guardians may start by asking the child what they have heard about the virus already. After knowing what they have heard, ask them if they have any questions. If the child does not know what questions to ask, start by clarifying the “whys” shared earlier. Keep in mind older children may ask more questions and may benefit from additional information.
It is essential to be clear, direct and honest when communicating with children of all ages about this prevalent, widespread event.
Dr. Mattie Jones, associate provost, professor and dean of education at Martin University and founder of PreK-Keys Consulting, can be contacted at mattielee-jones@att.net or www.prekkeys.com.
