Helping a child communicate


when feeling unwell


On this page:


Some children may feel anxious about the possibility of becoming unwell with COVID-19. For children who begin to feel unwell, they may worry that they have the virus, and feel highly anxious about this.


  • Let children know that it is okay for them to tell you if they are feeling unwell
  • Re-assure them that children are less likely to be sick with the virus, and if they do have the virus they may have symptoms similar to a cold or having the flu

Some children may have difficulty communicating that they are in pain or unwell.


  • Watch for signs of pain such as grimacing, or for signs of fatigue
  • Encourage gestures or other methods of communication to work out what may be happening
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