Usable Knowledge Helping Children Cope with Coronavirus and Uncertainty How caregivers can answer children’s questions while fostering a sense of safety Posted March 13, 2020 By Emily Boudreau and Elio Pajares Disruption and Crises Human Development Schools across the country are closing their doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Children may come to the adults in their lives with questions, worries, and even misinformation they've overheard from friends.We asked Richard Weissbourd, a senior lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, to share ideas about how adults can talk to children about the virus. Below the video, some tips and takeaways.How to help your child work through fears and uncertaintiesMake developmentally informed decisions about what children need to know and understand in order to feel safe.Focus on creating an environment where children can ask the questions that matter to them.Reassure children they are going to be safe and that you as their caregiver will also be taking steps to ensure that you stay safe as well. Encourage compassion for vulnerable people and expanding your child’s circle of concern.Avoid stigmatization by emphasizing that getting sick is part of being human and we all need to help each other feel safe. Additional Resources Talking with children about coronavirus, from the National Association of School Psychologists Usable Knowledge Connecting education research to practice — with timely insights for educators, families, and communities Explore All Articles Related Articles Usable Knowledge Cultivating Empathy in the Coronavirus Crisis To avoid isolation and self-focus, shift your attention and concern to the needs of others Education Now The Healing Power of Friendships and Relationships A discussion on how schools can help every student to feel that they belong — by encouraging friendships and supportive relationships. EdCast The Negative Effects of Remote Learning on Children's Wellbeing How a focus on social-emotional learning can better help children — in school and at home — as we cope with recent challenges and begin to emerge from the pandemic.