Contents
How to explain Covid-19 to children?
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Using a metaphor is the best way to explain the coronavirus epidemic to children! The child psychiatrist Stéphane Clergé offers us that of a chip that jumps from one person to another… He reminds us that this situation is also an opportunity to engage in dialogue with our children.
Update September 2, 2020 – The Covid-19 epidemic is a distressing situation for parents and children alike. There is a great deal of information circulating in the media on this subject and it is not always easy to differentiate the true from the false. Children need to be reassured, hence the importance of the words chosen to explain to them what the health crisis is. Indeed, it is essential to tell the truth to children, whose daily lives have undergone many changes, especially during confinement, since the start of the pandemic. Lying would only increase their doubts and fears, which could be harmful to them from a psychological point of view. Referring to the coronavirus by its real name is also the advice given by pediatricians. Otherwise, the child may not differentiate between Covid-19 and other pathologies. Asking your child questions to find out what he understands and to know the subjects on which the parents should help him is also a good means of exchange. The child may be frightened by the mask, because it hides part of the face of people. Do not hesitate to tell him that it is a means of protection against this “nasty” virus. |
What attitude to adopt with adolescents?
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Fanny Jacq, psychiatrist explains to us that most adolescents are withdrawn. Also, they are hyper-connected on social networks. They like to go out with their friends. During confinement, it is important to involve the adolescent. In addition, you should not upset your habits either. The psychiatrist explains to us that, for example, if the teenager is used to staying in his room, he cannot completely change his habits overnight. It is better to “sit down with him” and discuss how he can get back into family life. Fanny Jacq reminds us that she will need a little time.
Should we be less severe with children during confinement?
The psychiatrist, Fanny Jacq, suggests that we choose our fights. During confinement, it is possible to be less severe with our children. You have to know how to “let go” on certain points, such as tidying up the house or apartment. However, it is not because we are confined that all abuses are allowed. She advises families to come up with new rules and explain them to children. This regulation must then be adapted: to make them more flexible or to work with others.
Interview carried out by the journalists of 19.45 broadcast every evening on M6.
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