People around the world are concerned about the Coronavirus outbreak, as a result, most of the people are not going out of the room unless it is essential. A kind of panic has also gripped the children. They are passing lazy time at home. In this situation parents are also in confusion. Most of them have no idea what they would do with their children.
Helal Uddin Ahmed, Associate Professor of Child Adolescent & Family Psychiatry at National Institute of Mental Health told Bangladesh Post that the World Health Organization has already issued a directive in this regard. Again I say, children will panic, worry in this situation which is normal. If they are too worried then it will be difficult to follow the hygiene. That’s why parents will have to spend extra time with them. They have to stay close.’
`During this time children may become angry, cry, some will urinate in bed. That’s why you have to spend quality time with them. Parents should talk directly to them without watching television or mobile. Parent may tell them stories or play with them,’ he continued. “Second, they need to be informed about their hygiene. Third, they need to give an advance idea that someone in the family can get sick at any time. That’s why they may have to remain isolated for some time. It has to be done for the good of everyone. They have to adapt to the changing environment. They will study, draw pictures, and not waste their time,” Helal added.
Most people are in home quarantine now at Tolarbag residential area in Mirpur of Dhaka after the death of two persons due to affected Coronavirus. Most of the people are staying inside. Sabina Yeasmin, a resident of the area told Bangladesh Post, “There is always a kind of fear, apprehension in the mind. I can't even go to the porch for fear. It is so difficult to pass every day with two little children within the four walls. Sometimes the children want to go outside for playing. May Allah help us overcome this danger.”
Engineer Abdus Salim said, “My boy is desperate to get out of the room. Sometimes saying, let's go outside. He often gets angry. Most of the people are facing the same condition. One of my acquaintances said he was in big trouble with his two children.’ Shammi Akter, a college teacher who lives in Niketone area in the capital, told Bangladesh Post, “My child is at home for last five days. We are feeling very bored to stay home all time, just like a prison. I do not understand what to do.’
Nuhu Abdullah, a resident of Mirpur, said, “My daughter is very gentle. I understand she wants to go outside but she does not disturb me. I am giving her much time. Sometimes, I play, sometimes I tell her stories. I act like a friend.” According to UNICEF “It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything you’re hearing about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) right now. It’s also understandable if your children are feeling anxious, too. Children might find it difficult to understand what they are seeing online or on TV – or hearing from other people – so they can be particularly vulnerable to feelings of anxiety, stress and sadness. But having an open, supportive discussion with your children can help them understand, cope and even make a positive contribution for others.”
“Start by inviting your child to talk about the issue. Find out how much they already know and follow their lead. If they are particularly young and haven’t already heard about the outbreak, you may not need to raise the issue – just take the chance to remind them about good hygiene practices without introducing new fears. Make sure you are in a safe environment and allow your child to talk freely. Drawing, stories and other activities may help to open up a discussion.”
UNICEF said most importantly, don’t minimize or avoid their concerns. Be sure to acknowledge their feelings and assure them that it’s natural to feel scared about these things. Demonstrate that you’re listening by giving them your full attention, and make sure they understand that they can talk to you and their teachers whenever they like. Be honest, explain the truth in a child-friendly way.
UNICEF advised if you are experiencing an outbreak in your area, remind your children that they are not likely to catch the disease; that most people who do have coronavirus don’t get very sick, and that lots of adults are working hard to keep your family safe. If your child does feel unwell, explain that they have to stay at home/at the hospital because it is safer for them and their friends. Reassure them that you know it is hard (maybe scary or even boring) at times, but that following the rules will help keep everyone safe.
