Children may be experiencing feelings of uncertainty and anxiety when hearing about COVID-19 (coronavirus). They may have questions about the safety and health of themselves, loved ones, and friends. Parents can help ease these feelings by having conversations with their kids to help them understand what is happening and what they are doing as a family to stay safe.

Here are some tips to help parents talk to their children about the coronavirus.

1. Stay calm. Children will pick up on your own emotions concerning the coronavirus. If you are feeling worried or scared, your children are most likely feeling the same way. Children can pick up on cues from both what you say and how you say it. Remaining calm, reassuring, and comforting will help you and your children.

2. Keep it simple. If your children are asking questions, you can explain to them that most people who get sick feel like they have a cold or the flu. Some kids may want to spend time talking in more detail. Others may not be interested, and that's ok. Going into too much detail may raise more questions and concerns for children who are feeling anxious.

3. Educate yourself. Give children honest information that is appropriate for their age. Be aware of how your children are getting news, especially older kids who are reading stories online. Ask them what they already know and follow their lead. You want to make sure they get the facts from a reliable source and feel comfortable asking questions. You can check the CDC website for up to date information.

4. Teach them. Talk to your children about everyday preventative actions to help them stay healthy and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Parents should advise their children to wash hands often, not to touch their faces, keep surfaces clean, and to keep a safe distance from others.

5. Be a good role model. If children see you washing your hands often and following the preventative actions you teach them, they are more likely to do the same.

Remind your children that this will not last forever. Keeping your child engaged and reinforcing a daily routine may help with any anxious feelings they may be having. Find new ways for your children to learn and express themselves while staying healthy and safe. Parents should keep an open forum with their children by sharing accurate information, answering questions they may have, and listening to their feelings.

To learn more about Children's Urgent Care Center, visit their website at ucc4kids.com.