Helping Children Through Pandemic: Putnam Experts

BREWSTER, NY — Helping children be resilient through a crisis like the current pandemic isn't easy but can be done, say experts from Putnam County.

Shanna Siegel, a public health nurse at the Putnam County Department of Health, advises caregivers to use an evidence-based approach for answering mindfully.

“When faced with a difficult question, take a deep breath and listen closely to your child, while assessing your own values and knowledge,” Siegel said. “Tap into their level of understanding, by returning the question back to them. With this awareness, you are better able to decide how to answer. Meet your child at their level of understanding, both intellectually and emotionally, but stick to the facts—and be honest if you don’t know the answer. There are a lot of unknowns right now, and sometimes just sharing our feelings about the situation is the best answer."

Jessica Vanacoro, Associate Executive Director of Camp Herrlich, encourages parents and caregivers to sit in the discomfort with their children. “It’s important to acknowledge and accept children’s feelings, empathize with them, and avoid over-reacting or being dismissive by saying, ‘don’t worry, everything will be all right.’"

Putnam County's outbreak continues to slow. Hospitalizations were down by four as of May 6, to 13. There are currently 69 active cases out of a total 1,220 since the beginning of March. By far, the most cases in the county have been people between the ages of 30 and 60. Children have accounted for only 67 cases, but of course they are affected by sickness in their families.

Vanacoro and Siegel were among the speakers last week at the Community Resilience Coalition Webinar on Children of Putnam and COVID-19: CRC Actions. It was hosted by the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University’s Earth Institute.

“We see a huge need for resources to help our children through this crisis,” said CRC community champion Barbara Garbarino. “Our sheltering at home and social distancing are necessary to curtail the virus, but they are not without emotional consequences. Children are among the most vulnerable in our community. Because of this it was crucial to open our usual quarterly CRC meeting to the public.”

To view the webinar video or read the transcript, visit the website of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University’s Earth Institute or directly on the RCRC COVID-19 Webinar Series page.