How to Keep Kids Safe When Going Back to School During A Pandemic
August 1, 2021
By: Kaitlin Graham
Going back to school can be a stressful time for parents, especially when facing a pandemic involving the deadly virus that is COVID-19. Keep reading for some helpful tips on how to keep your kids safe and healthy this school year.
1. Practice Handwashing At Home
It’s important to teach your children the proper way to wash their hands at home before they have to do it alone at school. According to the Mayo Clinic, it may be helpful to teach them the importance of washing one’s hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, “especially before and after eating, coughing/sneezing, or adjusting a face mask.” As you may know, you should wash your hands for the length of time it takes to sing the “ABC” song twice.
2. Develop a COVID-19 Reaction Plan
Even after taking every precaution (masks, distancing, handwashing, sanitizing, and vaccinations), it is still possible to be exposed to COVID-19. Having a plan in place can alleviate some stress and anxiety for you and your family if one of you is exposed to COVID-19. Make a plan that works for you family to protect you and the people you are close to from contracting the virus.
3. Get Vaccinated
For people ages 12 and up without prior health issues, the COVID-19 vaccines are completely safe and very effective. Getting the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccine is one simple way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick. If your child is 12 or older, encourage them to get the vaccine, as well, so they can go to school without risking their health. Visit vaccines.org to find a COVID-19 vaccination location near you.
4. Mask Up
While wearing a mask is bothersome, it is the best defense against COVID-19 for children ages 12 and under. Since children under the age of 12 cannot get vaccinated at this time, it is very important to teach them why we wear masks and ensure they are wearing their masks properly in schools and other indoor public spaces. Click here to read “Your Guide to Masks” from the CDC.