This is a time when children may be more irritable, less willing to follow instructions and more difficult to manage.  Often as adults, we are inclined to feel that we need to be more strict or impose more rules when our children are acting out, however, under our current circumstances, just the opposite may be true.  Children, like adults, are experiencing the frustration of a lack of choice in their lives. They are looking for understanding from you as a parent and need help in structuring their days.  With few opportunities for outside interaction, now more than ever, it is important to try to provide varying experiences for your child as much as possible. Outside time and frequent breaks from school work are important. Trying new things is also important. Talk to your child about his/her frustrations and share your own with him or her. Then make a plan of what you will do and carry it out together.

Additional Parenting Tips & Support

Supporting Kids During the Coronavirus Crisis
Working from Home with Kids
Working and Learning from Home During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Parenting Resources from the Child Mind Institute
Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
Talking with Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Tips for Families: Coronavirus

Children’s Books About Coronavirus

What Kids Want to Know About Coronavirus: An Original Comic
Why We Stay Home – Suzie Learns About Coronavirus
First Aid for Feelings: A Workbook to Help Kids Cope During the Coronavirus Pandemic (Available in English and Spanish)