The pandemic has taken a toll on all of us including the kids. There have been many cases of kids being anxious, frustrated etc. Meghna Yadav, developmental psychologist and head of training and development at KLAY Preschool and Daycare said that such pandemics can have psychological effects on children across the globe. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that will make you understand that the kids are stressed.
1. Symptoms may vary according to age, developmental stage, social support systems and guidance.
2. Most of the children under stress want more attachment and become more demanding of their parents.
3. Younger children may exhibit excessive crying, temper tantrums, irritable behaviour, etc.
4. Old habits that have outgrown such as bedwetting, nail-biting and clinging may start again.
5. Some may have edgy behaviour or become forgetful, avoid routine activities or multiple unexplained aches.
6. Teenagers may be sad, withdrawn and irritable. They may also start use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and excessive immersion in social media.
Here are some pointers on how you can help the kids:
1. Patience is important. Trauma is mostly due to fear and half-accurate information
2. Create a schedule for learning as well as fun activities. Children might have a different routine now, but devising one with time slots such as activity, screen, family board game and cooking time helps reduce anxiety.
3. Limit exposure to related news, including on social media. However, clear rumours and fake news. Provide age-appropriate information to children.
4. Reassure the children about their own, family’s and friend’s safety. Keep expressing through different ways that you are there for them.
5. Let children know it is okay to feel upset. Talk to them. Share how you deal with your own stress, so they learn to cope with you.
6. Parents need to regulate their own emotions to teach children self-efficacy in tough times. Children observe and absorb the way adults respond So, parents need to stay strong and calm.
7. Don’t give constant advice. Allow your child to guide you at times.
8. Start conversations around the start of school before the actual day of joining the school. Listen to their concerns and reassure them about their safety. Instruct them about precautions and safe practises.
9. Make them wear masks for 30 minutes every day, followed by 10 minutes of unmasking. Gradually increase the duration to cover the school day.
10. Do not put academic pressure on the child. Let them take some time to get resettled in the new environment.
11. Don’t compare your children or yourselves to anyone else.
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