From an interview with
Dr. Benjamin Elder
McLeod Pediatric Associates of Florence – West

Coronavirus (COVID-19) gives adults plenty to think about. And the children – especially young ones – can find all the talk and news confusing.  McLeod Pediatrician Dr. Benjamin Elder offers some thoughts on how to talk to your children and keep them busy.

Here’s a summary of Dr. Elder’s comments:
I would explain to children that for many people the Coronavirus is a really bad cold. Children understand a really bad cold. Many of them have had the flu, and they understand what it feels like to feel bad. I would also explain that one of the reasons that we have to do all these different things because of Coronavirus. We wouldn’t usually do these things about a cold or the flu, because we’re trying to learn more about the Coronavirus. One thing that we do know is that it’s a little harder on older people like grandma and grandpa than it is for younger people to handle.
 
One thing we can do for creative time is physical activity. Getting out and moving around is one thing that we could do together that wouldn’t violate any social distancing. Many of the gyms have been closed because of the social distancing policy and all the children’s sports have been postponed, as well.

Finding ways to play games outside and be active can help our family’s mental health as well as physical health. Many people who are shut in the house for long periods of time could benefit a getting up and around and engaging with someone else in a sport, a game or a hobby. During this time, it’s a great idea to take advantage of the opportunity to get active again.

Find a Pediatrician near you.