Children and the News: Swine Flu
Each day we hear stories about various events taking place in the world. Adults understand what we hear, we know what to pay attention to and what is mostly media hype. Children do not. For example: Swine Flu. It is all over the news and many children are worried. They hear that people are getting sick and, worse, they are dying. There are some easy ways to help your children get the information they need and help them to not panic.
1. If they ask questions, give them developmentally appropriate information. Let them know that there is a sickness going around, but that you and other people around them will do everything possible to keep them safe and healthy. Explain what it is and what it is not (especially that they will not get sick from eating things related to swine).
2. Limit the amount of TV and radio to which they listen. There is a such thing as media hype. Swine Flu is the latest news and the more the children hear about it in excess, the more nervous they become.
3. Be careful how you as parents respond to the news. This is the most important piece. If you panic they will panic. It is ok to feel worried, but do not let your fears cause anxiety in your children. Children pick up on what you feel and say. Talk about your fears with your spouse, away from your children. They are counting on you to be their rock and support. There is nothing scarier to a child than their parents, their super heroes, panicking. There are times to show fear and times to remain calm. For your children, you should try to remain as calm as possible. They do not fully understand what is going on, they will just know you are scared. If you feel your worries are overwhelming you, seek professional assistance.
If you have any questions or feel your child may be struggling with anxiety related to Swine Flu or other issues, feel free to contact Dr. Elise by phone or e-mail.
1. If they ask questions, give them developmentally appropriate information. Let them know that there is a sickness going around, but that you and other people around them will do everything possible to keep them safe and healthy. Explain what it is and what it is not (especially that they will not get sick from eating things related to swine).
2. Limit the amount of TV and radio to which they listen. There is a such thing as media hype. Swine Flu is the latest news and the more the children hear about it in excess, the more nervous they become.
3. Be careful how you as parents respond to the news. This is the most important piece. If you panic they will panic. It is ok to feel worried, but do not let your fears cause anxiety in your children. Children pick up on what you feel and say. Talk about your fears with your spouse, away from your children. They are counting on you to be their rock and support. There is nothing scarier to a child than their parents, their super heroes, panicking. There are times to show fear and times to remain calm. For your children, you should try to remain as calm as possible. They do not fully understand what is going on, they will just know you are scared. If you feel your worries are overwhelming you, seek professional assistance.
If you have any questions or feel your child may be struggling with anxiety related to Swine Flu or other issues, feel free to contact Dr. Elise by phone or e-mail.
