How to have a panic-free conversation with your kids about the coronavirus

Here are some pointers for keeping kids — and yourself — calm

Kids wearing masks.
(Image credit: Sasiistock/iStock)

An epidemic can be a scary time for parents. With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring the coronavirus a public health emergency on Thursday, and the U.S. reporting its first case of person-to-person transmission of the virus the same day, it's only natural to feel a sense of unease.

But take a deep breath. Many children are already worried by what they're hearing about the outbreak, and although the daily updates about the virus are alarming, it's really important to remember the impact these headlines can have on kids. To save them (and yourself) from unnecessary anxiety, there are a few simple things that you can say and do.

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Anna Bassi

Anna Bassi is the editor in chief of The Week Junior (U.K. edition).