The heightened discussion of COVID-19 and announcement of school closures can create stress and anxiety for families and children.

Tips from the CDC website for talking with your children

• Remain calm and reassuring;
• Make yourself available to listen and to talk;
• Avoid language that might blame others and lead to stigma;
• Pay attention to what children see or hear on television, radio, or online;
• Provide information that is honest and accurate; and
• Teach children everyday actions to reduce the spread of germs.

Additional resources for talking with your children

• How to Talk to Your Kids - PBS/Daniel Tiger for young children
• Brainpop video - cartoon explanation for children
• Comic Explaining COVID-19 - NPR / WI Public Radio
• What to Say to Kids When the News is Scary - NPR / WI Public Radio
• Talking to Teens and Tweens About Coronavirus - New York Times
• Talking to Kids About COVID-19 - Child Mind Institute
• Guide to Talking with Children About COVID-19 - National Association of School Psychogists