Is your family struggling with less physical contact with others? You are not alone. It is normal for parents to worry about what is going on, how life has changed and what the future may look like. We all want to do the right thing to keep everyone healthy and safe.
Try to understand how we all may be feeling
For humans, showing love or affection in person is important for our health and wellbeing. This change may be particularly hard for relationships with extended family members. It is important to look at how to stay connected in other ways.
Think of this as something we need to do now but will end
Children can usually understand things are different even if you have tried to keep to a normal routine and away from the news cycle. We cannot control the world, but we can do lots of things to keep us healthy.
These are things we can do to help
Be a positive role model for your children. We know what happens in your own home has the most impact on your child’s overall health and wellbeing. Try to make home a safe place for them. What they see and learn from you at home will help them work through what is happening in the world around them. If you can, show them and tell them (if they are older) what you are doing or need to do. These are things like staying at home more, talking more on the telephone and keeping to a routine. Remember the routine may have changed. Try not to talk about the difficulties like less food choice. Instead try saying we are going to try something new.
Being together as much as you can as a family will help them feel safe. But also, it is important to take some time out for yourself. Taking a break is part of self care.
Keep it practical
- Talk to them about the things they need to do like wash their hands and trying not to touch too many things when outside the home.
- Keep the message and choice of words simple.
- If provided, do their planned schoolwork at home.
Let them know that it is safe to
- Hug and cuddle you and those living with you.
- Talk about what is going on.
- Ask questions. Tips for answering young children's questions
- Have meals together.
- Go outside together, to do something special like a game or learn a new skill.
- Talk on the telephone or use video links.
Seek the help and support you need
We know it is important to reach out and get the help you need, please do this. Sources of help:
Keep up to date with COVID-19 advice
For all parenting advice contact the Child Health and Parenting Service (CHaPS) Parenting help line phone 1300 808 178