With the emergence of the global pandemic “COVID-19 disease,” the importance of emotional health and activity in children and adolescents has become critical.

From COVID-19 parenting guidelines, we extract key actions to apply at home while staying safe and reducing virus spread and healthcare impact.

These are six simple guidelines:

Guideline 1: Quality Time

Time is free and valuable. It helps children feel loved and secure.

• Spend at least 20 minutes with each child.
• Let them choose the activity.
• Turn off TV and phones.
• Read, look at photos, play.
• Dance, sing, or do chores together.

For teenagers:

• Talk about their interests.
• Exercise together.
• Listen actively.

Guideline 2: Stay Positive

Children respond better to positive instructions.

• Use positive language.
• Avoid shouting.
• Speak calmly.
• Praise good behavior.
• Be realistic.

For teenagers:

• Help them stay socially connected online.

Guideline 3: Create Structure

Loss of routine requires new structure.

• Build a flexible daily routine.
• Include activities and free time.
• Involve children in planning.
• Add daily exercise.
• Make hygiene fun.

Examples:

• 20-second handwashing song.
• Games to reduce face-touching.

Also:

• Reflect on the day.
• Highlight positive moments.

Guideline 4: Managing Behavior

Misbehavior is normal.

• Redirect early.
• Use positive distractions.
• Pause before reacting.

Strategies:

• Reinforce good behavior.
• Maintain routines.
• Assign simple responsibilities.

Consequences:

• Must be realistic.
• Stay calm when applying them.
• Reinforce positive behavior afterward.

Guideline 5: Stay Calm and Manage Stress

Parents must take care of themselves.

• Seek emotional support.
• Limit negative social media.
• Take breaks.

Active listening:

• Let children express feelings.
• Validate emotions.

Pause exercise:

1. Sit comfortably, close eyes.
2. Observe thoughts and emotions.
3. Focus on breathing.
4. Feel your body.
5. Reflect and reopen eyes.

Guideline 6: Talking About COVID-19

Honesty builds trust.

• Listen to your child.
• Ask open questions.
• Answer honestly based on age.

Recommendations:

• Be supportive.
• Avoid fear-based explanations.
• Encourage empathy.

Closing:

• End with something positive.
• Do something fun together.

Use trusted sources such as: www.who.int