This pandemic is a pretty scary thing. We don’t know how long we’ll be isolated. We don’t know if we or our loved ones will get sick and we have know idea when or if our lives will return to the normal that we once knew.
It’s scary for kids, too. Some may understand the new rules they’re faced with, but no daycare, preschool or even playmates is a huge adjustment. If your kids are expressing bedtime fears because of Coronavirus or just having trouble falling asleep, you’re not alone.
What can you do to minimize those bedtime fears because of Coronavirus?
Don’t watch TV news while your kids are awake
Even if your kids can’t understand what’s said on the news, they can process the images, which can be pretty darn scary for a child. By now, most of us have gotten used to seeing nurses and doctors wearing face masks, purple gloves and isolation jumpsuits but to kids, those nurses and doctors might look like ghosts, monsters or some other creatures from outer space.
Monitor your kids’ screen time
Many parents are now working from home and simultaneously taking care of their kids. It’s hard to have a productive work day when you’re also the daycare provider or classroom teacher. Kids may, understandably, be in front of a screen so you can get some work done. Make sure your kids aren’t watching anything scary. It’s especially important to avoid screen time one-to-two hours before bedtime. The blue light emitted from a screen inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone that should be rising at night to help drive sleep.
Maintain a consistent schedule
Overtired kids tend to have more bedtime fears and nightmares. And they may have even more bedtime fears because of Coronavirus. Keep your kids on the schedule they previously had. Consistent wake times are just as important as consistent bedtimes. Make sure they’re getting enough indirect sunlight and exercise. Tire them out during the day so they can fall asleep easily at night.
Give your kids opportunities to express their fears
Acknowledge your kids’ fears and allow them plenty of time to talk about them in daytime conversations. Remind them of all the things you’re doing at home to make sure this virus never comes to your house. Remind them that it’s a parent’s job to keep their kids healthy and safe and that they don’t need to worry.
Be a good role model
We’re all a little stressed about this pandemic. Do what you can to minimize your own anxiety. If you don’t, your kids will pick up on it. Take care of yourself. Get adequate sleep and exercise, read a novel, watch movies, listen to music, eat well, practice mindfulness or meditation, Zoom with friends, etc. It’s essential to keep informed throughout this pandemic but put a limit on the news you watch or read online each day. News 24/7 is just too much!