COVID-19 and Kids: Understanding the Risks

Jen Parker, grateful parent and essayist, moderates an exclusive conversation with UCSF experts discussing the most up-to-date information about the physical and mental threats to children and what we can do to help support their health during COVID.

Key Takeaways and Resources

• While much remains to be understood, new research suggests that children do not transmit COVID-19 to the same extent as adults. In addition, the inflammatory disease related to COVID-19 that has recently made headlines is incredibly rare. Risk to your child is minimal. Learn what’s fact and what’s fiction.
• Physical health is connected to mental health. Stress can increase the risk of illness, especially among young children. Get mental health resources.
• Children express complicated emotions in challenging ways like irritability and sleep disturbances. It’s important to understand their needs not only developmentally, but also to take into account your own child’s specific temperament. Discover how we’re spreading joy at the hospital.
• People of color are threatened by the pandemic in greater proportions in part due to pre-existing conditions, poverty, toxic stress and their roles as essential workers. Understand Adverse Childhood Experiences.
• Maintaining ongoing medical care is crucial. Visit the emergency room if your child needs immediate attention and never hesitate to reach out to your primary care doctor with questions. Learn how we’re supporting families, with help from our community.
• Recognize that you are a good parent and that you are navigating unprecedented and traumatic circumstances. Be kind to yourself. Find ways to reduce your kids’ anxiety - and manage your own.