Guidance counselors help in discussing Covid-19 with children

GLASGOW Ky.-School hallways are empty of students, and school staff across the nation are still working diligently to make sure students readily have all the resources they need. For parents, explaining the situation of the coronavirus can be difficult, given the severity and the uniqueness of the situation. That’s where guidance counselors come in. Guidance counselors like Highland Elementary’s Ashlea Hiser.

“We’re available by phone call. We have Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram where we’re also available for any needs that kids might have for the social and emotional issues that they might experience through the virus,” Hiser said.

Guidance counselors at all grade levels have made themselves available to students as needs come up. At Glasgow High School, students can communicate with counselors via Google Hangout and video chat, which is also utilized for virtual classrooms.

“Our students are pretty versed in Google and all aspects with that. The classroom isn’t new to them. They know how to use the hangout better than I did. I had to learn how to do that specifically for this,” said Glasgow High School junior and senior counselor Lori Siebold.

As another coping method, counselors are recommending students stick to a comfortable schedule.

“A schedule is a great thing. Sometimes we don’t realize that until we’ve gotten away from it. It’s a good idea to give yourself that schedule even at home,” said Glasgow High School freshman and sophomore counselor Lorie Bunch.

While explaining the situation is tough, Hiser said honestly is the best policy, in addition to reassuring children that they have help at the school.

“For parents, I think it’s important to be honest with them. We don’t want them to think that they’re just on a snow break or a sick break. We want them to understand that this is a significant time for us, and we need to take all precautions that we can,” Hiser said.