If you believe a child is in immediate danger call the Police on 111
For non-urgent cases where you suspect a child may be in an unsafe environment, please contact Oranga Tamariki at contact@ot.govt.nz or phone 0508326459, lines are open 24/7.
Acknowledge that this crisis is hard to understand. Put it into perspective – cases of COVID-19 will get worse during lockdown and this is to be expected, but this doesn’t mean that lockdown isn’t working.
It won’t last forever – every red light turns green. It will be ok, we need to work together, be careful and follow the rules. Whanau/family/support people are really important
Ask kids what they think is happening and how they are feeling. Validate how they are feeling, clarify facts and dispel myths
Enjoy the best of the situation because this is an opportunity to spend time with your kids and those in your bubble
Self-care
Look after yourself first so you can be in the best position to look after others
Keep connected with neighbours and those in our communities. Make use of social media to stay connected
Some families will need some contact due to loneliness or sickness. Others may need support if they are at home with kids, or are single parents, or are elderly
Those with physical or mental disabilities may face extra challenges during this time. Make sure you find someone to talk to, pick up the phone or use on-line methods. A problem shared is a problem halved.
Don’t get hooked into the panic response. There will be enough food, and there is support available
Practical examples of what parents can do to get through
Ideas for self-care:
Go outside, walk the dog, kick a ball, have a picnic, collect leaves, pick up feijoas
Talk to whanau/family/friends
Share the tasks, delegate, get kids involved
Get creative – build a fort, invent games
Listen to your children
Try to limit dependence on technology. Don’t let it become the babysitter or a battleground for control