Children will follow your lead. Try to stay calm and stick to your normal routines as much as possible—this can limit the stress youngsters feel in uncertain times.

Ask your children what they’ve heard about the Coronavirus. This will give you the chance to clear up any misconceptions they may have. Reassure them that following common-sense advice like washing their hands frequently and staying home if they are sick is the best way they can help. It is especially important to limit young children’s exposure to the news. For instance, watch TV news when they’re not around.

It’s natural for children to feel disappointed when events are canceled. Empathize with them, and consider doing special at-home activities, for example, camp out in the backyard or living room and read books by flashlight; hold a family movie night—complete with a “concession stand” that offers treats like microwave popcorn and pretzels; or have a dance party or sing-along with relatives via video chat.