Recent events happening as an outcome of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak have changed daily realities of many children and parents. As more families face social distancing, self-quarantine, and school and work closings it’s possible to feel stressed. In this connection, UNICEF worked out guidance for parents so that they efficiently spent time with their children in the period, IPN reports. 

The parents can create a daily schedule together with the child.

- Draw the parts of the schedule together to represent each activity and include a general timeline for when each activity shall happen.

- Organize a schedule in line with a daily routine child had in a preschool before the new situation (meals, play times, breaks for snacks and naps, balanced combination of physical activities and quiet time activities and learning).

- Include children in daily chores and household activities by specifying their particular task or a role (setting the table, watering plants, folding clean clothes etc.)

- Include regular “whole family” activities into the schedule – enjoy in joint meals or play and recreation activities. Try to keep us with the schedule as consistency helps young children feel secure and safe.

The parents can make a list of indoor and outdoor activities that can be practiced as circumstances allow and can balance physical activities. It’s more important to keep the learning positive and fun than to worry about maintaining academic skills for preschool-aged children. Enjoyable experiences such as reading together, storytelling, and games are fun ways to keep learning going without putting too much stress on young children.

Children might find it difficult to understand what they are seeing online or on TV – or hearing from other people – so they can be particularly vulnerable to feelings of anxiety, stress and sadness. Lack of opportunities for outdoor play and activities might make them more restless and frustrated adding to the stress of their parents.

This guidance should help parents plan and have some ideas on how to organize time, how to talk to children and help them thrive even in the given circumstances.

All the national education institutions in Moldova were closed until March 31, but the suspension period could be yet extended.