What to do if the children ask whether they die from the corona virus, and how do the children explain why the parent is in isolation? The experts explain

• How to explain to children? A child in the Philippines

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In recent days, we are surrounded by massive reports of the corona virus that is also expanding in Israel. The pieces of information do not miss the children either, sometimes it is also incorrect information that can cause them fear and panic.

How do you explain to the children what the Corona virus is, and how do you deal with the disappointment that the Adelaide procession or various events you intended to attend during the holiday have been canceled?

The preschool experts explain that coping with the fear can contribute to the child's mental resilience. At the same time, it is very important to legitimize the sense of fear. The children's fear experience is real and it is important to acknowledge it and not deny it.

"Parents are the closest person to children. Even before we go to calm them down, it is important that we calm ourselves down. The children will expect your behaviors and emotions to learn how to manage their emotions during this time," says Ravit Raviv, Director of Early Childhood, at the Adler Institute. She said proportion should be maintained. "Remind yourself that the fact that the issue is widely covered in a news way does not necessarily mean that it poses any risk to you or your families."

Michal Dalyas Family Counselor and author Nanny adds that what pressures parents is the sense of loss, loss and grief that children will experience from canceling Purim events and parties. "As soon as events are canceled we cause children frustration, grief and heartache, and a parent should know how to contain it. In a few weeks it may be forgotten and dropped from the public agenda, but should give the child an explanation and tell that it is a disease that causes fever and sore throats that go through. For cancellation based on the age of the child, for example, preschoolers can be told that there is an illness in the air, and since they do not want people to contract, cancels meetings that have a lot of people, "says Dalit.

"Hysterical parents will also drag hysterical children. You have to understand that the parent is the one who shows the child the interpretation of reality. When he is told Corona he will not be afraid unless his parents tell him a scary story around it."

What to do if a child asks whether they die from this disease?

Daliot replies, "They respond that they do not die from it. If he says he has heard that someone has actually died of this disease, it is only people who are very ill. There is no need to tell the children the whole truth, there is no reason to provide children with unnecessary information. The minimum information that provides them with an understanding of why events they like are canceled or why people they are used to seeing are out of sight for a while and are in isolation. "

Variety indicates that this is a period of unusual behavior, so the children at home will be much more screen consumers than usual. This can be enabled and known that there is an emergency case of isolation and a little out of balance. When everything is over you can know that control is restored to the previous state. "Let the kids eat food they like so they don't run out for snacks, and keep them busy. Busy kids won't be on screen or in the fridge."

Raviv also asks parents to look for a reliable source of information about the Corona. "Talk to your family doctor, read information on MDA's website and the Ministry of Health, which will give you objective and reliable information about the corona virus outbreak.

"It is worth limiting the viewing of the news sites, but if the children nevertheless went out to see the media coverage, and watched again, and if necessary talk to them later and soften the information," explains Reviv.

Maintain a routine

She also recommends that children focus on routines and regular, clear schedules. She said, "One of the most effective things in calming down when distress and stress is maintaining normal social activity, which helps maintain a sense of normalcy, also gives room to talk, vent, share feelings and release distress."

Reviv asks the parents not to be superheroes, give the child a sense of security, share it with your feelings, tell him that you are dealing with the same fears and concerns. "Adhere to the Health Ministry's instructions, and pass them along with the children, explaining to them that the Ministry of Health is doing everything to take care of us and care for us, so we must follow the guidelines that include maintaining hygiene."