A Helpful Message from the Office of Head Start
Young children have questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to think about truthful, age appropriate responses to these questions and to check in regularly with children about this topic. Keeping answers simple and age appropriate are key. Don’t avoid questions you do not have the answers to. It is acceptable to say, “I don’t know.”
Young children may have fears or worries related to the COVID-19 pandemic and it is important to validate those feelings and reassure children that important adults in their lives are doing everything they can to keep them safe and healthy. As new information is available, continue the conversation about the COVID-19 pandemic with children.
These are some questions young children may have, and possible ways to respond:
- “Why can’t I go to school?”
Example response: “School is closed right now, your teachers and friends are home, just like you. When school is open again you can go back to see them.”
- “Will I get sick and die?”
Example response: “Everyone gets sick sometimes. We wash our hands and wear our masks to stay healthy. If you get sick we will take care of you until you get better.”
- “Why do people need to wear a mask?”
Example response: “We wear masks to keep ourselves healthy and to keep our friends healthy, and to keep other people healthy.”
- “When will the germs be gone?”
Example response: “Doctors and scientists are working hard to make the germs go away, I will let you know when the germs are gone.”