The coronavirus pandemic is challenging our society. Politicians are calling for social isolation and all steps are being taken to slow the spread of the virus as far as possible. This also means that all schools and daycare centers have been closed since the beginning of the week.
This in turn brings a whole new situation for many parents. How do I get my home office and family under one roof? And how do I explain the corona pandemic to my children? Luisa is also concerned with these questions. She is an educator and is currently working in the emergency care of a daycare center. With BRIGITTE.de she talks about how children can be employed in this exceptional situation – and why they are often underestimated.
Corona challenge with children: 6 questions for the educator
What would you recommend if you now sit at home with a child – and actually have to work?
"What I think is most important, because it is a resting anchor for children: structure and security. So that you create a kind of daily schedule, for example with small pictures: First we have breakfast, then you can paint, then there are two hours Play time, then we have lunch break and another block so that the children know what will happen next.
Such a day is not particularly long for us, but it is eternal for the child. So it helps that they know what's going on in general. "
And what if you can't currently plan properly?
"It's not a drama, something can change during the day. But it should be transparent. As long as you speak to the child so that they don't feel turned off and the day is drawn out as a result."
What can the structure points look like? How can I keep my kids busy?
"You can include children in the household depending on their age. Even if the result is not perfect. If you say, 'Look, if you want to help me, then … sweep for example.' Or after breakfast you say you have to work, you leave the table like this now, and then a seven-year-old can calmly clear away. These are all such small tasks that you delegate, as well as small challenges or educational games, be it that To tie the shoestrings.
Then you can – also together with the children – research online what is to be made or painted. Activity boards for example. You grab a cardboard and bottles and just build something yourself. Ask children in the evening: What do you want tomorrow? "
Can I park children in front of the TV?
"Here, too, I would say to children clearly that this is an exception and will not become the rule. But clearly. The brain does not shrink from watching television for two weeks. You can see if you can find video stores with a little education in between – for example with Documentaries for children. Or you combine films with a playful task and say: In the end I ask you five questions. So that the children don't just let themselves be sprinkled. This prevents boredom when they have to be careful and have fun. "
What if my child doesn't understand that I have to work?
"If they ask what you do, you shouldn't say:" It doesn't matter, that's not for you ". I would explain the whole situation at all: Why you have to work at home now, that you don't just have time off, why the daycare or school is closed, so you don’t worry about children, but rather reassure them because you are completely open and honest, and it explains: everything is different right now, security gives the daily structure again. I have a task and you too . "
Can I talk to children about the Corona virus? Or am I scaring them?
"Communication is important. You can explain that all of this is just a measure – we should be afraid if we would continue as before. But we are doing something. It is important.
And infection is generally bad – so you should always wash your hands well. I think that's a good chance, if health and hygiene are a big issue, that children take it with them: washing hands is important.
So if you don't panic yourself, the children won't. I think if you hide everything from them, but you notice that something is different. Then they get scared. "
Thank you for the interview!
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