Mason Shares Resources for Parents to Help Children Navigate Coronavirus Outbreak

GURNEE, Ill. – State Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is highlighting resources to help children stay mentally and emotionally well throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While it’s very fortunate that children are less vulnerable than adults to the physical harms of COVID-19, the outbreak hasn’t left young people untouched,” Mason said. “Lack of in-person time with friends and educators can have a serious impact on kids’ mental health, and it can be challenging for parents to know the best way to address these issues with their children.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Mayo Clinic have both issued guidance for parents to help their children better understand and cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s and the Mayo Clinic’s resources can be found at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html and www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/kids-covid-19/art-20482508 respectively.

“As parents, we should always be thoughtful when discussing sensitive subjects with our kids, and that’s especially important when it comes to COVID-19,” Mason said. “I’m hopeful that students will be able to return to the classroom this fall and, with it, some sense of normalcy. Until then, I encourage parents to utilize online guidance and resources to help make this difficult time easier for their children.”