A number of reputable national organizations have developed guidelines for parents, caregivers and teachers for talking with children about the Coronavirus and infectious disease outbreaks.

Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus, Child Mind Institute

Talking With Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Talking to Children About COVID–19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource, National Association of School Psychologists

When you talk to your children

• Keep explanations developmentally appropriate.
• Remind children they are safe. Remain calm and reassuring.
• Be available to your children and answer questions to the best of your ability. It is okay to not have all the answers. Refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the most current information.
• Be a good listener. Allow your children to talk about their feelings and concerns. Some children may prefer to express their feelings through writing or artwork.
• Validate feelings and reactions as normal responses to uncertain or upsetting news.