Numerous schools in our area have closed due to the swine flu outbreak, and I’ve been thinking about the parents who have had to scramble to secure childcare for their students.
My daughter is young and doesn’t attend school, so I didn’t have to explain why classes were temporarily cancelled. Unfortunately, I wasn’t completely out of the woods. Last night while I was watching the news and making dinner, I heard:
“Swine flu, swine flu, all they talk about is swine flu.”
I turned around to see my exasperated daughter staring at the TV with her hands placed firmly on her hips.
So much for skipping the lecture on mysterious biological events. Here I thought I could hold off on the infectious diseases talk. Wrong.
So how does one explain to a young child about an illness the Center for Disease Control doesn’t even have a firm grasp on?
One word: GOOGLE.
Yes, like a 21st century lemming, I googled “swine flu,” and the results didn’t disappoint.
I was amazed by how many child psychologists have been consulted about explaining the illness to youngsters.
As the number of confirmed cases of swine flu increases, so it seems, does the number of mental health experts willing to provide tips on how to calm children’s fears about the disease.
I found the most helpful advice on USAToday.com. The site features some good tips on how to broach the topic, including:
Tip #1—Be Honest
Leading child experts recommend you get your facts straight before initiating a conversation about the flu with your kids. What’s more, be cognizant that some times kids are too scared to approach you about their fears. According child psychologists, it’s best to share the facts with your kids so they don’t come up with their own explanations that are much more frightening than the truth.
Tip #2—Keep it Simple
Don’t get into a two-hour lecture about swine flu. Instead, experts recommend you keep your explanations short and simple. Start by asking your kids what they know and what they’re concerned about. Then, the experts suggest saying something like: “Some people have gotten sick with a flu you get from contact with someone who has it. Mom and Dad are going to make sure you’re safe. We’ll take care of you.”
Tip #3—Modify Explanations for Teens
Experts say most teens display a “false bravado” when it comes to illnesses. It’s important to address basic facts with them and address their concerns in an age appropriate manner. Translation: Remind them to wash their hands and avoid contact with sick people.
Have you talked to your kids about swine flu? What tactics did you employ?
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