Back to School: Staying Safe during Covid19
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This back-to-school season is like nothing we’ve ever experienced. Along with the normal stresses of getting ready, we now have to prepare our kids to take on CoronaVirus as we send them out into the world. But taking the right precautions can help ease our minds and help to keep them safe.
According to the CDC, there are a few main objectives when trying to keep kids healthy during Covid19.
- Teach and reinforce everyday preventative actions
- Help your child stay active
- Help your child stay socially connected
- Watch for signs of stress or behavior changes
Read the full CDC article HERE. You may also be interested in the CDC Back to School Checklist.
Let’s remember, too, that this period in time is also taking a mental toll on ourselves AND our kids. There are so many uncertainties, routines have been edited, and we’ve all been forced to stay away from family and friends. That’s not easy on anyone. As The New New York Times reminds us, back to school is not just about books and pens. It’s also about the intangible stuff. According to their Back to School List for Emotional Well Being, there are a few things that parents can do to help their child cope.
- Find safe ways for them to see their friends
- Have them spend time with adults
- Create a reliable routine
- Assure them they are supported at home
Lastly, if you haven’t had a talk with your child about CoronaVirus, there’s no better time than now. Harvard Medical School gives us some suggestions on how to have a discussion about the facts.
- Provide just enough information, but not too much
- Come prepared for some of kids’ common questions
- Maintain calmness when speaking about CoronaVirus
- Limit their exposure to News
Read the full New York Times article HERE.