Age-Specific Supports for Coping with the COVID-19 Crisis At Home
For Young Children
This Feelings Workbook from Scholastic, free to download and use, is targeted towards elementary aged children. It has writing and discussion prompts about feelings, ways to stay healthy, and space to create a daily schedule and identify adults who care. Get ideas for releasing and expressing feelings in creative ways. Available in English and Spanish.
CNN partnered with Sesame Street for a special recorded Town Hall About Coronavirus for Kids. The 90-minute program featured experts and Sesame Street characters — including Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Rosita and Grover. Together, they answered questions submitted by families. This Town Hall provided families with the opportunity to learn more about the pandemic and ask questions.”The ABC’s of Covid 19: A CNN/Sesame Street Town Hall for Kids and Parents” tackled issues including education, anxiety, screen time and play dates.
For Teens and Young Adults
This Child Mind Institute article is specifically designed for parents & caretakers of teenagers and young adults. It helps families to recognize particular challenges that they are experiencing and gives actionable tips for support. Available in English and Spanish.
For All Ages
This HelpGuide.org article for parents & caretakers educates families about age-specific signs of traumatic stress and ways to cope. For example, in young children, signs of trauma might include changes in sleep or eating patterns, whereas in older children and teens, signs of trauma might include complaining of physical ailments or avoiding things that remind them of an event or circumstance.
This Handout from Franklin County Family and Children First Council, gives practical advice about how to create a calm routine, plan for daily movement, and connect with people.