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The World Health Organisation has given some advice on helping children to cope with the emotional stress during the COVID-19 outbreak. We have stated the exact advice in the rest of this video, advice correct as of the time of filming, and more information can be found on their website at www.WHO.INTChildren may respond to stress in different ways such as being more clingy, anxious, by withdrawing, by being angry or agitated, or by bedwetting. You should respond to your child’s reactions in a supportive way, listen to their concerns and give them extra reassurance, love and attention. Children need adults’ love and attention during difficult times. Remember to listen to your children, speak kindly and if possible, make opportunities for the child to play and relax. Try and keep children close to their parents and family and avoid separating them and their caregivers wherever possible. If separation does occur, for example, if someone goes into hospital, ensure regular contact via phone or by messages and give them reassurance. Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible, or help create new ones in a new environment, including school or learning as well as making time for safely playing and relaxing. Provide facts about what has happened, explain what is going on now and give them clear information about how to reduce their risk of being infected by the disease in words that they can understand, according to their age. This also includes providing information about what could happen in a re-assuring way, for example, if. a family member or the child may start feeling unwell and may have to go to the hospital for some time so doctors can help them feel better.
Children may react differently to stress compared to adults. It's crucial to:
It's essential to equip children with accurate information about COVID-19: