Manley Highlights CDC Suggestions on Talking to Children About COVID-19

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – To help parents navigate new challenges caused by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is encouraging families to use recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help parents talk with their children about the coronavirus health crisis.

“This is a scary and frustrating time for many residents and may be especially stressful for children who might not understand why life has changed so drastically over the last few months,” said Manley. “As a mother and grandparent, I understand the difficulties that parents are facing while navigating this pandemic. To make this time easier, the CDC has released tips and resources to help us best communicate with the children in their lives.”

Manley is promoting the CDC’s online resource page that provides tips to help parents, school staff and others working with children communicate about COVID-19. It emphasizes the important role trusted adults can play in helping a child understand what is happening, strategies to minimize anxiety, and guidance on how to make sure your child learns everyday actions to limit the spread of germs.

“Promoting mental health and wellness is important for all of us during this time, and the CDC’s tips can help parents recognize what stress looks like in their children and examples of behavior changes they should lookout for,” continued Manley. “I encourage families to continue doing their part to help save lives by staying home as much as possible, and remaining diligent to ensure everyone stays safe, healthy and in good spirits.”