How to Respond When COVID Steals a Childhood

Oct 11, 2020 | Kids & Family

In the last 6-8 months, have your kids said anything that sounds like this?

  • “It isn’t fair that I can’t do ___________.”
  • “I miss my friends.”
  • “This is the worst year ever!”

Living through a pandemic is no small task, for either parents or kids. But especially for kids who can’t fully grasp intangible concepts like an invisible virus. 

Our home was hit with corona this past week. Thankfully we are recovering well. But whether you’ve experienced it firsthand, or simply had to deal with all the affects of how it’s changed our lives, how should a parent respond when COVID seems to steal so much from your kid’s childhood. Here are a couple of response reminders:

1. Stay POSITIVE

Kids are so resilient that they can often just go with the flow. But I’m sure you’ve seen that over time, all these changes definitely take their toll even on you’re most resilient little ones. As parents, we must learn to absorb as much as we can to protect their innocence and their way of life. 

Instead of being loud on all the negative, learn to see the positive and point it out. Recognize God’s blessings and encourage them to do the same. Because what you focus on always gets bigger, especially with your kids. 

2. Get CREATIVE

Corona has presented the family with limitless opportunities to think outside the box and to not be limited to our everyday routines and way of life. Family time has taken on new meaning. And more stay at home time means more play at home time. What are you doing creatively during this season to help your kids grow in character, new skills, or achievements?

While people in different areas around the world have taken positive turns towards getting back to normal, this is still a unique time not to be wasted, but to be invested. Get creative and invest wisely.

3. Be PROACTIVE

Your kids have questions and needs that they are counting on you to meet for them. In addition to the physical, be proactive to see and anticipate what is going on in their minds and lives emotionally and spiritually. Keep a close touch on their heart. Intentionally have many conversations with them during these times. Because a season like this has potential to both help or hurt our kids. And ultimately, that result is up to us. 

How is your family responding to COVID and its impacts on your children?  

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