How to talk to older kids and teens about COVID-19

For parents of teens and young adults, physical distancing and the spread of COVID-19 is creating some new challenges. Young people have been seen ignoring quarantine and continuing to party, not taking the virus seriously, and many parents feel like they should step in. Child development and parenting expert Carol Irwin broke down the best way to talk to your older kids about the pandemic, and some tips on how to empower them during these tough times.

ASK WHAT THEY KNOW

The best way to bring up the virus is to ask what they know. Start the conversation by sharing an anecdote, or statistic, or story you saw that helps provide some information. Then, ask them what they have seen or heard lately about COVID-19. For this age group, they are more receptive when they are asked what they know or think.

PROVIDE THEM WITH CORRECT INFORMATION

Share with them the resources you use to get information. Assuming they are using their devices a lot, you can share or text them articles to check out to avoid them relying on questionable sources.

EMPOWER THEM TO MAKE GOOD CHOICES

One of the greatest challenges with this age group is having them abide by physical distancing protocols. Instead of telling them what they can’t do tell them what they can do. Suggest they use apps like Houseparty. Share with them how you are filling your time and see what they would want to do.

ENCOURAGE THEM TO WORK ON A PROJECT

It's not really worth fighting with them to do school work. Instead, encourage them to work on a fulfilling project they can share with others. For example, are they great at makeup, or guitar? Have them create a YouTube video showcasing their skills and that will help keep they engaged.[video_embed id='1927540']BEFORE YOU GO: Essential conversations every parent should have with their kids about COVID-19[/video_embed]