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As children begin the school year (virtually) and many are gradually re-entering the workplace, we must remember we are still in a pandemic and precautions must still be taken.
Model and encourage preventative actions for your family.
According to CDC guidelines, practicing good hygiene through handwashing, social distancing, and wearing a mask in public shared spaces are the best preventative practices for avoiding COVID-19
While children are resilient and capable of adapting to the “new normal”, there are ways to help implement preventative actions in your family’s daily routines.
- Explain the significance of handwashing to children and how it is effective in preventing the spread of germs and viruses.
- Demonstrate to children how to properly wash their hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Help children understand how to practice social distancing and the proper way to wear a mask
Children tend to model those around them, if you are continuously practicing preventative methods, they’re more likely to do the same.
Stay Socially Connected.
Kids are used to being around their peers during the year and because it may be a little different this year, it is important to foster social interaction through other activities.
- Reach out to friends via phone or video chat.
- Encourage your child or teen to spend time outside of their room, so they are not isolating themselves.
- Plan a fun activity that fosters social interaction by writing a letter or drawing a picture to send to a friend or family member the old-fashioned way.
Encourage and maintain healthy habits.
- Avoid processed meals.
- Maintain your vegetable and fruit intake
- Encourage your child to play outdoors -- while social distancing -
- have “indoor activity breaks” where children can do some physical activity to promote physical and mental health.
Be mindful of signs of stress and behavioral changes.
While we are all weathering this storm together, it is important to acknowledge that not everyone, especially children and teens, responds to stress equally. According to the CDC here are some behaviors to watch for:
- Excessive worry or sadness
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Unhealthy sleeping habits
- Difficulty with attention and concentration
Parents can find additional resources for supporting your children’s emotional and mental well-being on the CDC’s Helping Children Cope Page.
When talking with children and teens about the outbreak it is best to do the following:
- Remain calm. Children will pick up on cues of distress from conversations you have with them and with others. Try to be mindful of what you say around them.
- Reassure children they are safe. Encourage them to express themselves and let them know it is okay to feel upset.
- Provide information that is truthful and developmentally appropriate for the age of the child.
- Reach out for help. Reach out to an online therapist to help children and teens cope with their new environment.
Resources:
https://www.bassadvancedurgentcare.com/post/keeping-your-family-safe-during-the-covid-pandemic-5-helpful-tips
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/children.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/talking-with-children.html
