COVID-19 Prevention and Your Child

When it comes to COVID-19 and children, many factors concern parents. Parents must remain vigilant for any signs or symptoms that may indicate their child is sick. Teaching and reinforcing every day preventative actions will promote a healthier environment, limiting the chances of contracting the virus. While the virus can still infect even the most cautious individuals, the following is a list of tips to keep children healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wear a Mask:

Everyone in your home that is 2 years of age and older, should be wearing a mask when in public and when around others who do not live in your household. Ensure that masks are being worn properly by securely placing the cloth face covering over your nose and mouth. Then, stretch it around both of your ears.

Wash Hands:

Washing your hands and teaching your child proper hand-washing hygiene is crucial when preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses. Wash your hands for 20 seconds and have your child do the same. If there is no soap and water readily available, you can use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Be sure to always keep an eye on your child when they are handling hand sanitizer, as it can be harmful if ingested. Teach your child to rub the hand sanitizer in their hand(s) until it is dry.

No Close Contact:

Try to avoid close contact as much as possible with people who do not live in your home, anyone who is sick or you suspect may be sick. The safest distance to maintain is 6 feet from others, which is considered social distancing.

Do Not Skip Routine Pediatric Visits:

Parents should remain connected with their child’s pediatrician. While the COVID-19 pandemic is worrisome and many parents fear for the safety and health of their children, children mustn’t miss their pediatrician visits because illnesses, injuries and behavior issues are ongoing and cannot go untreated. The best way to prepare your child’s visit is to:

• Call your child’s pediatrician office to schedule an appointment or ask them when your child should come in again.
• Talk to your child’s healthcare provider and ask them your unanswered questions.
• If your child is sick and you suspect they have COVID-19, contact their healthcare provider and notify them of your child’s symptoms before visiting their pediatrician’s office.

Get a Flu Shot:

Be sure that you and your children get a flu vaccine before the end of October, when flu season is reaching its peak. While the flu vaccine will not prevent your child from contracting COVID-19, it can reduce the chances of your child getting sick from the flu. Eliminating any risk of a potential illness can help others who are more vulnerable such as; babies, older adults, pregnant women, etc. from contracting COVID-19 or any other illness.

Stay Active:

It is important to know that regular physical activity is beneficial for your child’s health, both physically and mentally. Ensure that your child is staying active daily, even if they are in school virtually. Some ways that you can integrate physical activity in your child’s daily life is to:

• Give your children time to play outside whether that be going to public parks or simply taking a walk around the neighborhood.
• Make physical activity fun by creating outdoor activities such as riding bikes or playing tag.
• Make sure to always wear protective equipment when riding bikes or performing other potentially harmful activities.

Stay Connected:

Help your child stay socially connected so that they can experience social interaction. Some tips to stay connected include:

• Video chatting friends or family members who they may not be able to visit.
• Sending letters and cards to family or friends, including your child in the process of mailing out these items.

Cope with the Stress:

The COVID-19 pandemic can be stressful for parent and children. While the COVID-19 pandemic is worrisome and many parents fear for the safety and health of their children, helping your child cope with stress is extremely important. Be mindful of signs that your child may be stressed and support them and their mental health as much as you possibly can. If you have concerns regarding your child’s health either mentally or physically, reach out to their pediatrician.

We want to remind parents that we are here for you and your children. Whether your child is sick, hurt, or emotionally struggling, we are working hard to accommodate everyone during this challenging time.