From being surrounded at every angle with COVID-19 information, to dealing with changes in your everyday life, stress may be at a high level for Iowans, including those caring for children at home.

ISU Extension and Outreach Human Sciences Specialist Mackenzie DeJong explains that the first step to easing the stress your children may be having at this time is to take care of yourself, “Be good models of the ways that you ease your stress so that’s kind of the first thing is if you’re practicing good care of yourself, reaching out to resources, limiting social media/news, showing children those models of courage, determination, coping, support, and seeking professional advice if you need it. That will show them that they can then limit their social media use, they can show courage, they can show determination, and then you can work with them on coping skills.”

DeJong adds another way to lessen kids’ anxiety is to communicate with them, answering questions and sharing basic facts of COVID-19 that they can understand. It’s also important to maintain a routine as best as possible, such as regular times for meals, exercise, and learning activities. Though DeJong also says giving children the outlet to play around will lift their spirits during this increased time at home.