Ongoing news coverage about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) may be upsetting for many children, youth and families in our community. Our HCDSB Mental Health Leadership Team has compiled a list of tips and resources to help you and your child feel safe during this time of uncertainty.
Speaking with Children about COVID-19
Key messages for supporting children include:
- Reassure your child(ren) that they are safe.
- Provide extra emotional support (attention and affection).
- Minimize their exposure to media coverage of the events.
- Talk calmly about the events, and answer any questions they might have at a good level for their age (not too much detail, especially for younger children).
- Look for signs that your child is struggling (e.g., nervousness, irritability, problems eating or sleeping), and check in with a professional if you are worried.
Helpful Resources
- Talking to Children About COVID-19 – A Parent Resource
- Talking with Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents & Teachers
- School Mental Health Ontario Resources for Educators
- School Mental Health Ontario Resources for Parents & Families
- School Mental Health Ontario Resources for Students
Community Resources
In addition, parents may want to further explore the following resources in our community:
- Resources Available for Families in Halton
- Halton ADAPT: https://haltonadapt.org/
- Halton Multicultural Council: http://hmcconnections.com/
- Halton Region: https://www.halton.ca
- Kids Help Phone: https://kidshelpphone.ca
- Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK): https://rockonline.ca
- School Mental Health Ontario: https://smho-smso.ca/
- Telehealth Ontario: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-medical-advice-telehealth-ontario
- Woodview: https://woodview.ca/
Videos by HCDSB Social Workers
HCDSB Social Workers have posted videos on YouTube covering a number of important topics aimed to help our students, parents/families, and staff. Click the links below to launch each playlist.
Be sure to check the description of each video for additional resources and links.