Talking to your kids about coronavirus concerns

The coronavirus outbreak has many people concerned. But what is the best way to talk about it with kids?

News 12 Staff

Mar 11, 2020, 9:21 PM

Updated 1,518 days ago

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The coronavirus outbreak has many people concerned. But what is the best way to talk about it with kids?
Gail Melanson is the executive director of Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center, which serves nearly 600 kids and their families in Norwalk and the surrounding areas.
Melanson says the best way to start the conversation with children is to ask them what they have heard and what they are worried about. Then she says to give them relevant information that pertains to them.
"They don't necessarily care about what's going on all over the world. They want to know that they're safe and their family is safe," said Melanson.
She says it's important for parents to deal with their own anxieties about the outbreak before talking to their kids.
Carnell Jordan has five kids and he says he's continuously telling them to wash their hands and not to worry.
Melanson adds to make sure kids don't have any prejudices when it comes to the coronavirus outbreak. She also said to mention to kids that it is not their job to worry about it.
PHOTOS: The impact of coronavirus around the world
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