The Inescapable Issue

0
1860

Ouiam Charkani El Hassani talks COVID-19 and children.

Suddenly all that we know and trust is being put to the test. All that once made us feel safe and enveloped with love is now far away. Like a nightmare that is lasting a little too long.

From sipping your morning coffee in your favourite place, with your favourite barista and your favourite nut milk to getting that much needed ‘Me-Time’ at the beauty salon or even a simple human interaction… we are trapped – safe and sound, thankfully, but still trapped – at home, due to something we can’t even see, let alone fight!

COVID-19: are you a blessing in disguise, as some might think? Or are you a plain evil force that has wrecked our world, leaving us wondering if tomorrow will ever be brighter?
As adults, we have turned our living rooms into offices, and have downloaded multiple apps on our phones, to avoid any possible contact with human beings outside our very small circle of housemates.

We’re using and abusing every video chat app that ever existed and are thriving on Tik Tok, Snapchat and Instagram (out of pure boredom!). We’ve opted for pajamas as a daily uniform and have all suddenly turned into connoisseurs in every cuisine. We are slowly – yet surely – finding ways to make this temporary nightmare, a bright reality.

Yet I can’t help but think of those who haven’t the brain capacity to understand or to analyse, let alone cope with or manage this crisis. CHILDREN… our children whose brains are still developing and trying to grasp the normal, usual lessons life has to offer them. They are now faced with this complete, absolute nonsense and craziness.

Every safety net that had otherwise wrapped their life is gone! No schools, no friends, no family, no outings, no fun, nothing at all! They can only connect with computers, iPads, phones and TVs. They are socialising with pens, paper, toys and kitchenware.

Every bit of sanity they have accumulated through the years, is in the process of evaporating and melting away, leaving behind disconnectedness and inconvenience. These little beings need some sort of anchors to be able to navigate through what we are all trying to figure out. We – as parents – are all they have left to hang onto for dear life and, as parents, we are required to put our fears, uncertainties and anxieties aside, to tend to their fears, uncertainties and anxiety… as best as we can!

Here are some of the things specialists around the world are recommending, when dealing with children, regarding the coronavirus.

Make time to talk and ensure your child knows they can come to you anytime.
Make sure you listen to their thoughts, fears and opinions.

Remember that children will react to both what you say and how you say it. So, keep calm and composed.
Avoid using angry or strong words, keep it plain and simple. Teach them everyday actions to reduce the spread of germs.

Remind them that viruses have existed since life has started.
Limit their exposure to media and news, they can only aggravate children’s anxiety.

Consider reducing screen time – I know it is a tough one, but crucial – and instead try to keep their hands and minds busy. Daily walks, DIY projects, books etc. Screen time can take a toll on their moods, turning them into mini monsters.

Try your best to keep them connected with their friends and family, through video calls, messages, emails etc.
Take this time with your children as a gift from above, savour every minute. Be thankful that for once in a lifetime you can spend all day, every day watching their every move, step and milestone.

And most importantly, be easy on yourself and on them!
Chanelmama.