Information for Parents

COVID-19:SUPPORT FOR PARENTS AND CARERS

We know that parents/carers may have a tough time ahead, managing many roles. We will use this space to share information, links and resources with you, including ideas to support your family’s health and wellbeing.

What to do if someone has coronavirus symptoms:

If you or members of your family think you may have symptoms of coronavirus (a high temperature or a new, continuous cough), please follow NHS advice to stay at home. While schools are closed, there is no need to contact the school to tell us about any symptoms.

The latest official guidance can be found using the links below:

• Government guidance: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public

• NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

We will share any updates here, and contact parents and carers, once we know when our schools are likely to reopen. Please be assured that we will stay up to date on the latest guidance from the government.

Updates on school closure:

We will share any updates here, and contact parents and carers, once we know when our schools are likely to reopen. Please be assured that we will stay up to date on the latest guidance from the government.

Talking to children:

Children worry when they are kept in the dark. Below are some tips on how to talk to them, and some resources you can look at together:

• BBC: Coronavirus - keep it simple, stick to facts - how parents should tell kids: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-51734855

• Cognita: Talking to your child about coronavirus: https://www.cognita.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Cognita_Coronavirus_tips.pdf

• Helping children who are feeling anxious about coronavirus https://gozen.com/coronavirus-anxiety/

• A story for children about how coronavirus spreads (available in different languages): https://www.mindheart.co/descargables

• Facts for older children to read: https://www.makemegenius.com/coronavirus-2020-amazing-facts-for-kids.php

• Young Minds also have some helpful tips on talking to your child about coronavirus

• STAYING SAFE ONLINE: During this time, children may be accessing a lot of resources via the internet. Please highlight to your children the importance of staying safe online. If they see anything that worries them, remind them that they should always talk to an adult. Have a look together at our online safety page.

Things you might be worried about:

We are in an unprecedented worldwide situation with a lot of uncertainty. This can, for some, cause a great deal of anxiety. You might be thinking about:

• Dealing with illness yourself

• Dealing with the illness of family members - at worst grief

• Lack of food or provisions

• Child care issues

• Loss of income where you or family members are unable to work

• Supporting your children and family members

• How your children are going to get continued education, exercise and opportunities

• Inability to access healthcare for other medical issues

• Loneliness, anxiety or depression

Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues at this time - they will be an important source of support, via phone, messages, skype etc.

You may also find the following links helpful:

• Using food banks: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/help-if-on-a-low-income/using-a-food-bank

• If coronavirus makes you feel anxious: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/16/coronavirus-health-anxiety

• Local services in Wandsworth: https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/public-health/coronavirus/how-we-are-protecting-you/