Pandemic Parenting: Tips to Keep the Calm at Home

Uncertainty, fear, and being quarantined at home can make it difficult for families to maintain a sense of calm. That’s why it's so important to keep your children’s healthy habits, direct their behavior, and help them feel safe. Today Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC in New Haven County and Fairfield County are sharing some tips to help your family keep the calm.

Address their fears. Children depend on their parents for safety, both emotional and physical. Let them know that you are there for them and that your family will get through this together.

Answer questions honestly. Discuss any frightening news they hear. It’s fine to say people are getting sick, but also reinforce the importance of following rules like washing their hands and staying at home to keep your family healthy.

Stay in touch with those you love. In some cases, children may be worried about an older relative who lives alone or a friend or relative with an increased risk of getting sick. Video chats with loved ones can help alleviate their anxiety.

Tell your child before you leave the house. In a reassuring and calm voice, tell them where you’re headed, how long you’ll be away, when you’ll be back, and that you’re taking the necessary steps to stay safe.

Look to the future. Reassure them that scientists are working hard to figure out how to help people who get sick and that things will get better.

Maintain structure. Because the usual routines have changed, put new daily schedules in place, and break up schoolwork when possible.

Set aside some special time with each child. Choose the time, and let your child choose the activity. Just 15 or 20 minutes of your full attention, even if it’s only once every couple of days, will mean a lot to your child. Turn cell phones off or on silent to avoid distractions.

We hope these tips help you keep your home calm. Keep in mind that if you are having any issues with your feet, Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC in New Haven County and Fairfield County can help.

We’re in this together, so if you need us, call our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724.

Stay healthy and in good spirits and help others whenever you can.