Stuck indoors? Know how to manage stress

Chandigarh, March 30

Can’t go to work? Schools closed? Worried about money? It is normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed.

School shutdown is also a chance to make better relationships with our children and teenagers. One-to-one time with parents is now free and fun. It makes children feel loved and secure.

Covid-19 has taken away your daily work, home and school routines. This is hard for children, teenagers and for you. Making new routines can help. Parents should talk to their children about Covid as secrets do not protect children but openness do. The WHO has rolled out some parenting tips to beat the stress. — TNS

You are not alone

Millions of people have the same fears. Find someone who you can talk to about how you are feeling. Listen to them. Avoid social media that makes you feel panicked

Take a pause

Do a one-minute relaxation activity whenever you are feeling stressed or worried

Utilise the time at disposal

• Switch off the TV and phone. This is virus-free time 
• Read a book or look at pictures
• Dance to music or sing songs
• Do a chore together – make cleaning and cooking a game

Make handwashing and hygiene fun

• Make a 20-second song for washing hands. Add actions! Give children points and praise for regular handwashing
• Make a game to see how few times we can touch our faces with a reward for the least number of touches (you can count for each other)

You are a model for your child’s behaviour

If you practise keeping safe distances and hygiene yourself, and treat others with compassion, especially those who are sick or vulnerable – your children and teenagers will learn from you

Heroes not bullies

Explain that Covid-19 has nothing to do with the way someone looks, where they are from, or what language they speak. Tell your child that we can be compassionate to people who are sick and those who are caring for them. Look for stories of people who are working to stop the outbreak and are caring for sick people