As a global health crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the whole world. Not only has it affected physical health, but it has also impacted mental wellness. Ultimately, it has posed a threat to the overall well-being of people.
It’s good that people have already managed to cope with the pandemic after more than a year. But while the COVID-19 crisis is here to stay, people should not become complacent and let their guards down.
Despite the ongoing mass vaccination, understand that some people remain vulnerable to the various strains of the novel coronavirus. Aside from the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, the children are also at risk.
In addition, it’s crucial to understand the COVID-19 implications on children. That’s why, as a parent, you’ll do what it takes to provide your kids with needed support. Doing so will help foster their overall health and well-being.
Here’s how you can support your children during this pandemic:
1. Educate your children about the crisis
At this point, you should have already educated your kids about the COVID-19 crisis. If not yet, explain to them how the pandemic has become a global health crisis and how it has compromised the health and lives of people. Update them about what’s going on around the world.
Know that educating your children isn’t to create fears and scare them. Your goal is to make them acknowledge and process the crisis. That way, they know how to deal with it. Just make sure to do so lightly and end the conversation positively.
2. Set health and safety measures in place
In line with crisis education, it’s crucial to set health and safety measures in place. By now, you must have already implemented these protocols at home for your children to follow. These include house cleaning and disinfection, frequent hand-washing, and hand sanitizing. When going outdoors, be sure to wear a face mask, maintain social distances, and avoid crowded places.
It’s best to remind them about these health and safety measures. As the pandemic restrictions are getting lighter, it’s easy for them to let down their guard and get the infection. So constant reminders can make a world of difference.
3. Establish healthy routines at home
It’s vital to establish healthy routines to promote health and wellness at home. As a parent, you must set a good example and encourage your children to have good habits. Keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle always begins at home.
Some healthy routines include eating nutritious foods on time, drinking plenty of water, working out regularly, and sleeping and waking up early. Ensure that your kids practice these to acquire the value of physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle.
4. Teach your children how to practice self-care
Self-care is essential, especially during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s why this has become such a buzzword during this pandemic. But children most likely don’t know how to take care of themselves yet. So as a parent, teach them how to practice self-care as young as they are.
Some self-care practices include eating healthy, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and sleeping well. Self-care is also about having a ‘me’ time, pursuing hobbies and interests, and taking time to rest. Finally, self-care is entails knowing when to seek professional help. When your children are unwell, make sure to send them to a kid’s clinic immediately. That way, they learn the value of asking for help.
5. Have constant communication with your children
Everyone knows the importance of communicating. It applies to family members at home. It’s all the more necessary to have constant communication in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
Through regular communication, you’ll allow your children to vent out their stress, fears, and worries. You’ll also understand their thoughts and feelings deeply. While at it, you’ll be able to offer sound pieces of advice. Ultimately, you’ll help them cope with the pandemic.
6. Spend quality time with your children
There is nothing more fulfilling than spending quality time with your children. Thanks to the pandemic, it has somehow brought something positive to the table. While it has set families apart from their colleagues and friends, it has brought family members closer to each other.
As such, now is the best time to bond with your family. Watch movies, read books, have home exercises, and eat together in the comfort of your home. You and your family can also perform household chores, home improvement projects, outdoor landscaping, and even home gardening. All these activities will be good for your kids’ physical and mental health.
At this point, you now know what it takes to support your children amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. As a responsible parent, consider the valuable recommendations above, from educating your children about the pandemic to teaching them how to practice self-care. By doing so, you’ll be able to promote their overall health and well-being. Ultimately, you’ll help them rise above the pandemic situations and look forward to the future.
