"FOSTERING LOVE FOR CARE THROUGH MONTESSORI LEARNINGS"

How to talk to your child about social distancing

How to talk to your child about social distancing

It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live and interact with others. One of the most important changes in this regard is the need for social distancing.

Talking to your children about social distancing can be challenging. After all, children are used to being close to their friends and family members. They might not understand why they aren’t allowed to hug their grandparents or go to their friend’s birthday party.

To make things easier, here are some tips for talking to your child about social distancing:

  1. Explain why social distancing is important.

Explain to your child that COVID-19 is a new virus and that it can spread through close contact with other people. Tell them that social distancing is a way to help keep people safe from getting sick; by keeping our distance from others, we can help prevent the spread of the virus.

  1. Use suitable/age-appropriate terms to explain social distancing.

An effective way of making social distancing understandable for younger children is by telling them to keep a “germ bubble” around them. You can even draw a picture of people standing suitably apart from each other or other such visuals. Older children can understand complex concepts about how the virus spreads and why it’s important to take precautions.

  1. Normalise social distancing.

Let your child know that social distancing is something that lots of people are doing right now and that it’s perfectly normal. This will help your child understand that social distancing is an important precaution during the pandemic and they are not being singled out or punished.

  1. Be a good role model.

Practice socially distancing when in public to set a good example for your child. This includes staying 1.5 metres apart from others, washing your hands often and wearing a face mask.

  1. Find ways to stay connected.

Make sure your child knows that social distancing doesn’t mean complete isolation. There are still plenty of ways for your child to stay in touch with their loved ones, even when they can’t see them in person, including video chat and text messages.

  1. Talk about your child’s feelings.

Let your child know that it’s okay to feel sad or frustrated about not being able to see their friends and family as much as they used to. You can also look at the need for social distancing as an opportunity for your child to explore new things and get creative. For example, you can organise a virtual playdate for your child to talk to and play with their friend.

  1. Keep talking about social distancing.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, your conversation about social distancing should, too. Check in with your child regularly to see how they’re feeling and to answer any questions.

Social distancing is tough for everyone, but it’s important for us all to do our part in preventing the spread of COVID-19. By talking to your child about social distancing in a developmentally appropriate way, you can help them understand this concept and adjust to the new way of life.

To learn more about how to talk to your child about social distancing or our approach to keeping your child safe at Learning Ladder, get in touch today.

Cranbourne

16 Monahans Road Cranbourne, VIC 3977
03 5906 8700
1800 954 563

Watsonia

125 Watsonia Road
Watsonia, VIC 3087
03 9432 6565
1800 954 563

Wyndham Vale

2 Gallaxus Avenue Wyndham Vale
03 9125 5260
1800 954 563

Epping

(Opening Mid/Late 2025)
26A Hayston Boulevard Epping Victoria 3076
1800 954 563

Narre Warren

(Opening Jan 2025)
6-8 Meadow Walk Narre Warren, Victoria 3805
1800 954 563