Helping Your Child Cope with Uncertainty

• Life is filled with uncertainties and unpredictable events, such as weather, epidemics, loss of family and friends
• We inevitably have to live with "uncertainties" every day
• When struggling with the unknown, your child may experience distress and worries
• Support and assistance giving by parents can improve children's coping skills and reduce their emotional distress

How to Help Your Child Cope with Uncertainty

Create a Reassuring Environment

• Be there for your child
• A quiet and safe environment can help your child feel at ease

Listen and Accept Your Child's Feelings

• Listen attentively without criticising or denying your child's feelings

Help Your Child to Express Their Perplexity

• Encourage your child to express their feelings in a variety of ways (e.g., talking, writing, drawing, singing, crafting)
• Use feeling cards to enrich your child's emotional literacy so that they can accurately describe their feelings and regulate their emotions

Explain the Situation and Answer Questions

• Explain to your child what is happening and answer their questions, using language that they understand

Enhance Problem Solving Skills

• Utilise scenario-based questions and role-play to improve your child's problem-solving skills and increase their confidence in adapting to changes

Establish Daily Routines

• Maintain daily routines of your children and give them opportunities to make choices, which can give them a greater sense of control over their lives

Department of Health / Student Health Service <Parenting Tips Series>

October 2022