Isolating with Kids in Times of COVID-19

Today, hardly anyone is ignorant of the ongoing global pandemic that has grounded many countries to a halt. From the closure of schools and businesses to the shutting down of airports and city centres, life as we know it is rapidly changing. The distress of adjusting to the effects of the coronavirus disease only falls short of our worry of how to successfully tackle the outbreak, that too in good time.

Add to this the fact that there is no guarantee as to how soon this will blow over, what you get is a collapse of normal daily routines and uncertainty for what the world would be like post-COVID-19.

Yet, with most countries currently operating on some degree of curfews and restriction of movement, another thing that constitutes a big bother for many across the world is how to manage and preoccupy their children in the lock down. No doubt, every parent knows that even before now, handling kids is no easy feat, much less when you throw in an unforeseen emergency of this magnitude into the mix.

However, with no end in sight, soon enough, the world may also find itself dealing with overwhelmed parents who have to stay afloat in parenting, working from home and maintaining mental, emotional and financial stability for the days ahead.

In light of this, we at Pregnant and Perfect have put this guide together to help parents with a few tips on how they can better deal with the situation:

Create a positive mindset and attitude in your home: While it is easy to be fixated on the government restrictions, it is more important to re-frame your mindset as well as your children’s by shifting the focus. Help them to understand that anxiety is pointless and worry will only do more harm than good. Help them understand the facts about the disease, answer any questions and address any doubts they may have.
Keep up with regular routines: While it may be tempting to leave children to their devices literally – and glued to their phone screens all day, so you can let your hair down for a bit, think again. Creating an adaptive routine will ensure that your children’s minds are continuously engaged. Show your children that it is an opportunity to be together as a family, which is something to be grateful for; as well as a chance to do productive things that you have put off for a long time.
Do fun stuff together: From artsy stuff like macrame and cardboard or straw craft to creative and interactive learning programs, get your children engaged with a myriad of activities. You can also leverage on virtual reality experiences including virtual yoga, virtual doodling, and virtual zoo visits.
Avoid obsession with COVID-19 news: Of course, it is important to stay abreast of news updates in your locality and across the world. But if you find yourself over-researching symptom (you think) you feel or new developments that promote panic, then you’re not helping matters. Remember that children are more observant than we give them credit for. So, even if you think you can conceal your worry about the latest death toll or mass job loss, being anxious only gives rise to doubt and distress.
Practice mindfulness: Due to unique personality traits, children and teenagers will react differently to the situation. Some of the behavioral changes you should watch out for include excessive irritability, unhealthy eating or sleeping habits, being disconnected from family activities and company. Being alert to these and any other bothersome signs can help you communicate with your children to identify the problem to curtail it adequately.

Remember that the plan is to take each day as it comes, eliminating every chance of potential pressure, and staying alive by keeping healthy. As we continue to anticipate a quick end to the COVID-19 pandemic, please continue to stay safe and adhere to all recommended precautions.