With COVID-19 being declared a global pandemic and swiftly evolving by the day, it is critical that the public remains up to date on recent news about the virus, particularly its impact on children.
Although children are less susceptible to the coronavirus, parents can still implement rational habits for their kids to follow which will be instrumental in protecting the entire family and limiting the virus’ potential spread.
Joyous Montessori, a Montessori schooling system in Texas that is praised for its remarkable early education philosophy, has demonstrated a few ways that parents can safeguard their children and families overall from COVID-19. Joyous Montessori’s Keller location remains open during the current situation.
Take Note of Mild Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms experienced by children are similar to what adults will encounter, though the kids with confirmed cases often see milder reactions, Joyous Montessori says. These symptoms resemble those commonly found in a cold, including fever, runny nose, a cough and, in some instances, difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea have been reported. As of this day, it is uncertain whether children with underlying medical conditions and special healthcare necessities are at a greater risk.
Protect Your Children Extensively
COVID-19 generally spreads from one individual to another when close contact occurs, but reports suggest that certain surfaces can pose a threat as well. Joyous Montessori has compiled a list of precautionary steps for you and your children to practice:
- Clean your hands regularly with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Sneeze and cough into your shirt sleeve
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces on a daily basis (tables, chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, handles, desktops etc.)
- Steer clear of people who are sick and if you yourself are unwell, stay home
- Be aware of social distancing recommendations and maintain a two-meter distance from non-family members
- Launder clothing and any washable children’s toys, utilizing the warmest water setting whenever possible
- Obey the instructions imparted by your local public health agency
Communicate with Your Children
A disease outbreak such as COVID-19 can be complicated for children to comprehend and cope with. Parents can communicate relevant information that will allay their fears. Comfort your children with the knowledge that many doctors, nurses, and scientific experts in the world are working markedly to keep everyone safe and healthy.
Identify what your children already understand about the coronavirus and correct any misinformation. Instill a positive and honest mindset into your children, one that underlines the notion that they are unlikely to get sick but must still play a vital role in preventing others from catching the disease.
Also assist them in organizing and expressing their inner feelings surrounding the pandemic but be wary of your child’s exposure to the news and ensure that they are viewing appropriate material. Finally, encourage and support their connections with family, friends, and neighbors in suitable manners.
Preserve Their Education
Numerous schools are offering lessons online and parents should take time to review their child’s assignments, establish a satisfactory timeline for completing the work, and provide general assistance when called upon.
During these upcoming weeks, parents must also enforce a steady — at times flexible — schedule that includes consistent bedtimes, morning awakenings, learning hours, spare time, physical activity, and an abundance of healthy meals or snacks.
Depending on the age of the children, parents will be discussing expectations and the current transition in a variety of ways. One major consideration, regardless of the age group, is to find methods that allow a child to remain connected with friends and family from afar. Video chats and phone calls are both convenient for attaining this goal.
For parents of younger kids, many choices are available to create a fun-filled learning environment. Joyous Montessori says that these may include hands-on activities like puzzles, painting, drawing, and building things.
Motivate your children to incorporate some structured learning tendencies into their play time and urge them to advance their handwriting and grammar skills through written letters addressed to loved ones. Also encourage them to commence a shared journal that will record this shared experience and make full use of a library’s online resources, as they supply ample amounts of audiobooks and educational games.
Joyous Montessori on Final Steps
Keep a close eye out for any potential signs of illness like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or outright stress like excessive sadness, unhealthy eating or sleeping patterns, or struggles with concentration evident in your child’s behavior. Search for guidelines on credible online sources to help you and your child overcome these massive challenges.
Outdoor exercises are key to sustaining great mental and physical health. Invite your child to join you for a bike ride or walk routinely. Additionally, indoor activities like stretching and dancing are a huge help to their health.
Especially in these dire circumstances, it is vital for parents to act as tremendous role models and inspire children to emulate their actions, from the constant handwashing to social distancing instructions, says Joyous Montessori.
Parental influence, through leading by example, will play the most pivotal part in ultimately protecting your children.
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Interesting related article: “What is the Coronavirus?“