• Separate what is in your control and what is not! Wash your hands, remind others to do the same, cover your mouth with your elbow/arm when coughing and/or sneezing, take your vitamins, limit your consumption of social media and the news.

• Do what helps you feel a sense of safety! Not everyone prioritizes things the same way.

• Get outside in nature! The sun’s supply of Vitamin D is good for the body as well as physical exercise/activity in itself!

• Challenge yourself to stay in the present! Easier said than done; try not to focus too much on what will happen. Bring yourself into the present and focus on what is happening (or not happening) right now. Engage in mindfulness activities.

• Stay connected and reach out if you need support! Talk to trusted friends or family members about what you are feeling. It’s more than okay to talk about your feelings and any concerns you may have!

• Reassure them that they’re safe - All children, from toddlers to teens - encourage kids to engage in activities and play. The distraction is good for them and gives them a sense of normalcy. Adolescents do not like to show vulnerability; they may try to act as if they are doing fine even though they are not. Give them small tasks and responsibilities in the household, then praise them for what they have done and how they have handled themselves.

• Let them talk about their worries - Pick good times to talk. Look for natural openings to have a discussion. Listen well. It is essential to understand how your child views the situation and what is confusing or troubling to him or her. Let kids know it is okay to tell you how they are feeling at any time.

• Share your own coping skills - Act calm. Children look to adults for reassurance. Do not discuss your anxieties with your children and be aware of the tone of your voice, as children quickly pick up on stress.

• Limit their news exposure - This is especially critical as children will feel more overwhelmed and confused if their exposure is continual. Children who believe bad events are temporary can more quickly recover from them.

• Create a routine and structure - Maintain routines as much as possible. Amidst chaos and change, routines reassure children that life will be okay again. Try to have regular mealtimes and bedtimes.

• Acknowledge what your child is feeling. If a child admits to a concern, confirm what you hear: “Yes, I can see that you are worried.” Let your child know it is normal to feel different emotions and to express their emotions in different ways. For example, a person may feel sad but not cry.

• Know that it’s okay to answer, “I don’t know.” What children need most is someone whom they trust to listen to their questions, accept their feelings, and be there for them. Don’t worry about knowing exactly the right thing to say.