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FAMILY
Theoawchtoyobuer kids THE WORKING PARENT’S GUIDE TO
safe.
REMOTE SUCCESS
TALKING TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT
CONSIDER THESE 4 key strategies to accomplish your professional goals when
COVID-19 the kids are home.
AS WITH MOST hard talks, honesty is the The mass movement to remote work in combination with the absence of
best approach when it comes to discussing childcare or school has many parents working two full-time jobs at once.
COVID-19. Sharing actionable information will The challenge may sound like a losing battle. However, with a little creativity,
lessen your child’s worry about the spread of flexibility and patience, you can preserve your productivity.
this new virus.
Tip #1: Talk with your manager.
Let them know that it’s OK to be concerned Communication is key. Have an honest conversation with your manager about
and teach them how they can stay safe. the challenges you face while working from home.
Tip #2: Take advantage of the early morning.
OPEN DIALOGUE The hours before the rest of your family comes to life can be some of the most
productive of the day.
Your children may have a lot of questions, be Tip #3: Burn the midnight oil.
reluctant to talk about it or not have all the If you consider yourself a night owl, now is your time to shine! Use the hour or
facts. Begin with some of these talking points: two after you tuck your little ones into bed to take care of tasks such as tracking
»» Ask your child what he knows about time, organizing a spreadsheet or answering nonurgent emails.
Tip #4: Work together.
COVID-19. Listen, and then fill in any Many children are doing online learning these days, making this a perfect
missing information or correct any opportunity to focus on academic and professional responsibilities side by side.
misinformation.
»» Reassure your child that it’s OK to be 5 WAYS TO HELP YOUR TEEN
scared. The future is uncertain, but it’s not
all bad. WEATHER MORE TIME AT HOME
»» Keep it simple. Depending on your child’s
age and/or developmental stage, keep your TEENAGERS ARE MORE likely to have trouble coping with
COVID-19 discussion age-appropriate. stress related to the spread of COVID-19, according to the
»» It’s OK if you don’t have all the answers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To help your teen
Be honest. Look up the latest information on adjust to quarantine or sheltering in place, you can:
a reliable website or ask a trusted medical
professional. 1. E nlist help with decision-making. Let your teen play a
»» Don’t share your anxiety with your role in helping your family adjust to this reality.
children. If you’re feeling overwhelmed,
calm down before talking to your child. 2. Find ways for your teen to indulge his passion, such as
Children can easily pick up on stress. art or nature, from a distance through online resources.
10 navicenthealth.org | SUMMER 2020 3. G ive your teen space. Allowing your teen some privacy,
especially when she’s calling or video chatting with
friends, can help preserve harmony while your family is
in close quarters.
4. L end an empathetic ear. It’s important to let your
teen express those feeling of frustration without
minimizing them.
5. M aintain a regular routine as much as possible.
Designate specific times for schoolwork, gaming and
chores, as well as digital socializing with friends
and family.
