Like many of you, I’m at home and trying to make this quarantine a meaningful and educational time for the kids. Some days we stick to the schedule, and some days… I nap. (And by the way, we are now on our third schedule because once we figure out what kind of works for us, something changes!) Since my daughter is nearly 8, she has a lot of questions about coronavirus, COVID-19, and what the heck is going on in the world right now. Can’t say I blame her; these are strange times! So I decided to tackle the issue head on… but where to begin? Thankfully, there are lots of resources that make talking to kids about coronavirus an informative, and gentle process.
Coronavirus Learning Resources for Kids
I’m no expert on viruses (or even how to broach delicate topics with kids) and I’m sure I’m not the only one. Enter several highly regarded institutions with well-researched, scientific and factual resources to the rescue! Best of all, they are presented in manner that kids can understand. Here are some of those great resources we used:
National Geographic Kids has a great factual article that answered many of the very questions my daughter had been asking.
NPR created a comic explaining the coronavirus for kids which was an easy read, and she enjoyed making the ‘zine version of it. We also listened to the short, 3-minute audio story that accompanied the comic.
Brainpop has a short animated video that addresses Covid-19. They are offering free access to their site during the school closures. (I have found this to be immensely valuable, for this and other subjects.)
Nosy Crow released an illustrated downloadable book about Coronavirus for kids ages 5-9. The book is free, and they have requested that families donate to the NHS in lieu of payment, as they are able.
After we read, viewed, and listened to all of the above (over the course of a couple days,) I asked if she had any other questions (she did not.) Then, to hammer home the importance of hand washing, I had her create a little poster about it. Bonus – this kept her occupied for a bit, and she was proud of the end result. Her sign now hangs prominently in our powder room to remind everyone to wash their hands!
Activities for Kids at Home
In addition to the resources above, I wanted to make sure that our kids understand we are part of the community (and give them some activities to do!) I had been reading about families placing rainbows or hearts in the windows to represent various things – that we’re all in this together, and to express appreciation to all frontline workers. I wasn’t sure whether we should make a rainbow or a heart, and solved the problem by having the kids paint a rainbow heart!
Next, we placed a stuffed teddy bear in our window for the National Teddy Bear Hunt. The kids are so delighted when we go for a walk and they see new stuffed animals in our neighbors’ windows!
The kids spend the rest of their time outside playing with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and riding bikes. Indoors, they “help” in the kitchen, play with their toys, and read. We LOVED the Lunchtime Doodles series with Mo Willems, and was sad when it wrapped up. That time has been replaced with Storyline Online, picture books read by famous actors, comedians, etc. To be honest, the kids have no idea who these people are, but they enjoy watching and listening.
I hope some of you have found this mini round-up of resources for talking to kids about coronavirus to be useful. Most importantly, I think kids just need to know that they are safe and loved, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Do you have more suggestions or recommendations? I’d love to hear. Thanks to everyone for stopping by; if you’d like an educational activity for your kids to try out home, try my free printable Business Planning Kit for Kids! Dreaming of all the places you’d like to go once this is over? Check out my ultimate travel packing list. In the meantime, take care everyone, and stay safe!
Banner illustration by Artpolka.
