Navigating life during a pandemic like COVID-19 is difficult for everyone — but especially for children who may not fully understand what’s happening around them. From unsettling news headlines to changes in daily routines, it’s no surprise that many kids are experiencing increased anxiety, confusion, and fear.
Dr. Elsayed Abdelsalam — affectionately known as Dr. Sayed by his young patients — is a pediatrician who has helped countless families handle emotional stress during crises. Here, he shares practical advice on how parents can support their children’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being throughout a global pandemic.
Start with Simple, Age-Appropriate Conversations
Tailor the Message to Their Age
Children process information differently depending on their age and developmental stage. According to Dr. Sayed, simplicity is key when explaining the concept of a virus or pandemic to young kids.
-
Toddlers (ages 2–4): Use basic phrases like, “There are germs that make people sick, and doctors are helping us stay safe.”
-
School-age children (ages 5–10): Ask what they already know and help correct any misconceptions. Let them ask questions and be honest when you don’t know the answer — then look it up together using reliable sources like the CDC or your local public health department.
The goal is to keep communication open and honest without overwhelming them.
Manage Your Own Anxiety First
Children Absorb Emotional Cues from Adults
Kids are perceptive — they often take emotional cues from the adults around them. Dr. Sayed advises parents to stay calm and collected, even if they’re feeling anxious themselves. This doesn’t mean hiding your feelings but instead modeling resilience and self-regulation.
-
Reassure your child that the situation is being handled by responsible adults.
-
Avoid discussing financial stress or medical concerns in front of children.
-
Keep the message hopeful: “This is hard, but we’re doing everything we can to stay safe and healthy.”
Limit Exposure to News and Social Media
Less Media, More Meaningful Interaction
News coverage can be distressing for adults — and even more so for children. Dr. Sayed recommends setting time limits on news consumption and monitoring the content kids are exposed to.
-
Explain that while some people get very sick, most people recover.
-
Use trusted sources to help children understand what’s happening without fear.
-
Spend more time engaging with your child in positive, creative, or calming activities instead.
Establish a Healthy Daily Routine
Consistency Creates Security
Children thrive on structure. Creating a daily schedule that includes time for schoolwork, play, meals, and rest can provide a sense of normalcy.
Suggested daily routine:
-
Consistent wake-up and bedtimes
-
Blocks of time for homework and learning
-
Outdoor play or exercise time (with proper distancing)
-
Family meals and screen-free dinners
-
Free time for hobbies or creative play
Dr. Sayed reminds parents that flexibility is okay — if a child wants to do homework in the afternoon instead of the morning, as long as it gets done, that’s perfectly fine.
Encourage Healthy Eating Habits
Nutrition Supports Physical and Mental Health
Pandemic stress can lead to emotional eating — not just for adults, but for children too. Dr. Sayed recommends:
-
Planning balanced meals with vegetables, fruits, lean meats, and whole grains
-
Limiting processed foods, sugary snacks, and starch-heavy meals
-
Avoiding overstocking cookies and chips: “If it’s not in the house, it’s easier to say no.”
Healthy eating not only boosts immunity but also supports better mood and energy.
Reinforce the Importance of Hand Hygiene
Make Hand-Washing Fun and Effective
Teaching proper handwashing has never been more important. Dr. Sayed suggests turning it into a fun routine:
-
Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially before eating or after going outside.
-
Use songs to time the wash, like singing “Happy Birthday” or the ABCs twice.
-
Explain that washing hands protects not only them but also their family and community.
Make the Most of Time at Home
Turn Challenges Into Opportunities
Whether parents are working from home, furloughed, or adjusting schedules, there are silver linings to staying home with kids. Dr. Sayed encourages families to:
-
Spend quality time together: play games, cook, do puzzles or crafts
-
Have regular family dinners without screens
-
Explore new hobbies together or learn something as a family
-
Focus on gratitude and togetherness — remind kids, “We’re in this together.”
Final Thoughts from Dr. Sayed
While the pandemic has changed life as we know it, it has also created opportunities for stronger family bonds, emotional growth, and teaching valuable life skills. Dr. Sayed reminds parents that kids don’t need all the answers — they need comfort, structure, and love.
“This is a tough time,” he says, “but it’s temporary. We’ll get through it together.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: How do I explain COVID-19 to my toddler?
A: Keep it simple. Use terms like “germs that make people sick,” and reassure them that doctors are helping everyone stay safe.
Q2: Is it okay to admit I don’t have all the answers?
A: Yes. It’s perfectly okay to say “I don’t know,” and then look up the answers together using trustworthy sources.
Q3: How can I help my child deal with anxiety during the pandemic?
A: Limit exposure to negative news, provide structure, encourage open conversation, and model calm behavior.
Q4: Should I be strict about homework routines?
A: Flexibility is key. Let kids have some control over when they do their schoolwork, as long as it’s completed.
Q5: How do I encourage handwashing in younger kids?
A: Make it fun — sing a song for 20 seconds and explain how handwashing keeps them and others safe.
