Resources for parents & carers during the coronavirus outbreak
Lockdown and isolation with children can be tough, especially if your children need particular support or you’re doing this alone. Here are some resources and information, all from trusted sources and recommended and approved by parents in Leeds.
Try to listen to your child/children and try to answer questions they have, led by them and how much they want to know. You know your child best – decide what approaches will work for them and you. Having a rough schedule can help and this doesn’t need to be too rigid. If this doesn’t work try not to be too hard on yourself.
It’s important that you take care of your own wellbeing and mental health during the coronavirus outbreak, too.
Resources for parents and carers

Masked heroes
Help explain PPE to your children with this two-minute YouTube film from NHS North Cumbria.
Masked heroes filmTalking to your children about the coronavirus
Quick page of top tips for parents from the British Psychological Society.
Top tips for parents
Family Toolbox
Downloadable booklet full of creative therapeutic ideas for families in isolation.
Family toolboxParenting help from YoungMinds
A range of information and advice to support the whole family’s wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak.
YoungMindsGovernment guidance on wellbeing
Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak. Includes translation into multiple languages.
Government guidance
Autism, a parents' guide
Podcast (33 mins) with Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian and Dr. Marianna Murin.
Podcast on autismChildren's Guide to coronavirus
Something to look at together with your child to understand the coronavirus outbreak – includes ‘worry buster’ and some suggested activities.
Children's guide
What is the coronavirus?
Colourful story booklet with explanations for children, by The Autism Editor.
Children's storybookWhat to do in a lockdown
Top tips for parents on surviving lockdown particularly useful for children with special educational needs.
PDF for parents
Do you have children with ADHD?
Advice and support for parents supporting children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder when schools are closed, from Leeds Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.
PDF on ADHD