Hot Topics     Home and Family     Healthy Kids     Health Guide    

Talking Covid with the kids



How to be informative without freaking them out

Talking Covid with the kids


Humans, especially children, are inquisitive by nature. In fact, encouraging your child to ask questions, and answering the ones you can, are among the most important parental duties. The unprecedented pandemic continues to bring up questions for al of us, and because adults are more likely to receive information before children, it falls to us to share, or not to share. Or to half-share. To help navigate this often-nerve-wracking terrain, the Child Mind Institute’s Rachel Ehmke offers some guidance.

She writes: “Many parents are wondering how to talk to children about the impacts of the virus in a way that will be reassuring and not make kids more worried than they already may be.”

Similarly, I have found myself in situations with kids ranging from preschoolers to teens. Of course some are more inquisitive than others, and all are wise to sugarcoating. For the most part, I’m a natural optimist, but the pandemic has put that trait to the test. Rather than a “glass half full” guy, I am more “look what a pretty glass I am lucky to have.”

One thing I definitely do falls in line with Ehmke’s number one recommendation: Welcome their questions. No matter silly or serious, Ehmke says, “Encourage them to ask and, whatever the question, try to take your child’s concerns seriously. Your goal is to help your children be heard and get fact-based information that is likely more reassuring than whatever they’re hearing from their friends or on the news.”

Also: Don’t avoid questions you can’t answer. Amen to this. I have found myself saying, “I don’t know,” or, more often, “We just don’t know yet” more than ever. Ehmke notes: “It’s tempting to want to reassure your child that things will be better soon, even when you aren’t sure yourself. But teaching children how to tolerate uncertainty is key to reducing anxiety and helping them build resilience.”

Set the tone. I now avoid news-junkie friends. I am not anti-news, but my friends who fixate on it and unload on me are the opposite of what I want to present to a child. There’s a way to do it without upping the already-existing drama. 

READ MORE: Helping children understand the pandemic

Be developmentally appropriate. As Ehmke notes: “It’s okay if you can’t answer everything; being available to your child is what matters.”

Take your cues from your child. Listen. Don’t prompt questions.

Deal with your own anxiety. Hello. In the words of child psychologist Janine Domingues, PhD: “When you’re feeling most anxious or panicked, that isn’t the time to talk to your kids about what’s happening with the coronavirus.”

Be reassuring. This can be a challenge, especially if you’re stressed out. But try. I have found making an effort to find positive things to point out – like the increasing numbers of people who’ve recovered from Covid – can lift everyone’s mood.

Focus on what you’re doing to stay safe. Child psychologist Jamie Howard, PhD, notes, “Kids feel empowered when they know what to do to keep themselves safe.”

Recent data suggesting that washing hands not only helps against Covid, but is slowing down other viruses like pertussis and influenza, can be helpful.

Finally, Ehmke advises us to keep talking. As if we could stop.



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • Use caution when purchasing vitamins and dietary supplements

    Tips from New York State Division of Consumer Protection

    The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is warning consumers to take precautions when selecting vitamins and dietary supplements. read more »
  • Easy, Creamy Spring Goodness

    Take advantage of this early crop

    For a soup that smells as divine as it tastes, warm up your home with the fresh scents and flavors of Creamy Asparagus Soup. Pair with chicken salad croissants for a simple weeknight meal without the hassle. read more »
  • "Goodnight Moon" Stamps to be Unveiled at The Rabbit hOle

    Get yours starting May 2

    The U.S. Postal Service will unveil its Goodnight Moon stamps at The Rabbit hOle in North Kansas City, MO, on May 2 as part of an event leading up to Children’s Book Week (May 5-11). read more »
  • Preventing Child Abuse

    Five must-ask questions before enrolling your child in any activity

    As families consider before and after school programs, youth sports, and summer camps, asking the right questions can make all the difference in ensuring a secure, safe and supportive environment for your children. read more »
  • Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs

    Join the Annual Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby

    Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on Tuesday,February 18, 2025, announced the launch of the fifth Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby. The Derby will run from April 1, 2025, through September 7, 2025,and is open to children between the ages of four and eighteen who are children or grandchildren of Orange County residents. read more »
  • Expand Your Menu with a Versatile Enchilada Recipe

    Get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes

    An easy recipe that can serve your family or a crowd is a perfect solution for any cookbook. Look no further than this Easy Enchilada Casserole, an ideal fit for family dinners or hosting a group when served as a dip. read more »
  • Street Tacos from the Slow Cooker

    If your idea of street tacos includes standing over a hot skillet, wipe that sweat off your brow and give these Savory Street Tacos a try. They put the slow cooker and oven to work for you, providing that delicious street taco taste without the hassle. read more »
  • A Delectable Dessert for Valentine's Day

    Cheesecake and cookies! Yum!

    If you’re going above and beyond a stuffed animal and boxed chocolates this Valentine’s Day, try these Cheesecake Cookie Cups for a special homemade dessert. read more »
  • Don't Forget These 6 Things on the Day of Your College Entrance Exams

    Best ways to be prepared

    You don’t want to leave anything to chance on the day of your test. Pack these items the night before so you can grab extra sleep in the morning read more »