The current crisis has changed the way of life for everybody all across the world. The most affected by this are our children because for them to comprehend the magnanimity of the situation and the changes that it has brought is very difficult. They are not as mature as us and they are likely to get more stressed than us.
The restriction on their movement, closing of schools limited or no interaction with their friends, no physical exercise, etc will affect them physically and emotionally. They are also likely to suffer from psychosocial stress. The lifestyle changes can affect them so badly that can even be on the verge of a nervous breakdown,
Let us look at a few ways through which we can help them.
- Talk to them. Encourage a conversation. Address their fears and reason out things, explain things and situations and try and instill hope and confidence in them.
- Allow them to spend time with their grandparents – This is a positive influence and they feel comfortable in the warmth of their love and affection. Pampering and an extra dose of love and affection will help them get over these difficult times faster.
- Help them create hobbies, and involve them in housework like tidying their rooms, arranging their bookshelves, cooking, gardening, etc. they will feel useful and get distracted constructively.
- Create a routine for them – Even if they are not going to school let them get up at a particular time, sleep at a particular time eat, study, play as per routine bound activities. This will introduce a regulated life and healthy habits which will help them cope with stressful conditions much better
- Encourage virtual meetings with friends and leave them to chat with them online, but that too should be in control. This will leave them happy and they will have something to look forward to.
