The WHO has a series of one-page factsheets on “Parenting in the time of COVID-19,” including how to create routine, advice on how to talk about COVID-19, and managing stress.

  • Tips to reduce tension for caregivers of children/teenagers include:
    • Create a separate space for yourself as well as your child when staying home.
    • Maintain a routine, as best you can. Ensure everyone gets a proper night’s sleep, which can keep you alert and lower your risk for injury.
    • Model mindful self-care for your child or teen. It will help to support your own positive mental health, and create a template for them to follow.
    • Although we need to socially distance ourselves, it’s important to safely reach out within our family as well as within our communities for support.1
    • BC Children’s Hospital has some practical tips on parenting.
  • Proactively plan activities such as reading, exercise, indoor scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, etc.
  • Need to plug in the phone, tablet, electric kettle, and work computer at the same time? Overloaded electrical outlets and frayed cords are a fire hazard. Low-voltage shocks can also have long-term effects such as pins and needles, numbness, memory loss, and anxiety.2
  • Kids love to climb, and unsecured furniture can be pulled down on top of a child. Secure TVs, bookshelves, dressers, and other furniture to the wall.
  • Make sure that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Review your family fire escape plan.
  • Clear clutter from walkways and stairs to avoid fall or tripping hazards.

For more home safety tips, Prevent Child Injury Coalition has launched a #StayAtHomeSafety campaign on social media.

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  1. Goh, S.(March 25, 2020). Child sexual abuse expected to rise amid COVID-19 pandemic, experts say. Global News. Accessed from: https://globalnews.ca/news/6730142/coronavirus-covid-19-child-sexual-abuse-increase/ 
  2. Parachute. Electrical Safety. Accessed from: https://parachute.ca/en/injury-topic/home-safety/electrical-safety/