Many families now face new challenges: how can we look after our youngsters while working and schooling at home, and not panic during this unprecedented outbreak? The first step: take a deep breath. Know that we are all in this together, and together we will get through it. I would like to show you how “managing your Household during a Pandemonic can keep everyone safe.
Here are other tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics to assist you in dealing with this “new normal” until the Virus is under control.
Slow the spread
It may be tempting to get kids together for play dates or sleepovers, but this should be avoided. Social distancing only works if we all participate. It is best to slow down and prevent the spread of the virus.
Protect grandparents
This is also not the time to visit grandparents or ask them to help out with child care duties. People who are over age 60 are at higher risk of severe illness with COVID-19 and should not increase that risk by being around children who may be ill with mild symptoms. However, they may feel alone or disconnected during social distancing, so keep up communications through phone calls, texting, or video chats.
Keep a routine
Since changes in routine can be stressful, it will be helpful to talk with your kids about why they are staying home and what your daily structure will be during this time. Let them help create a daily schedule which will hang on the refrigerator or somewhere they will see it every day . Be sure to incorporate breaks from tele-work or schoolwork to relax and connect with one another .
Here are some ideas to help you create a daily schedule:
- Wake up, get dressed and have breakfast at the normal time.
- Designate a place where each one can do their work most effectively and without distractions.
- List the times for learning, exercise and breaks.
- For younger children, 20 minutes of sophistication assignments followed by 10 minutes of physical activity might work well.
- Older children and teenagers could also be ready to specialise in assignments for extended stretches, taking breaks between subjects.
- Include your hours also , so your children know when the work day is completed .
- Schedule time for nutritious lunches and snacks. Many schools are providing take-home school meal packages for students who need them.
- Don’t forget afternoon breaks as well!
- Always have family meals together and discuss the day’s events.
- Enjoy more family time within the evenings, playing, reading, watching a movie or exercising together.
- Stick with normal bedtime routines the maximum amount as possible during the week to form sure everyone gets enough sleep.
- Try not to have the news on all day. It is best to not have the news on while kids are within the room because it can increase their fear and anxiety (and yours!). If they are doing hear the news, talk together about what they’re hearing and proper any misinformation or rumors you’ll hear.
- Staying at home and other social distancing recommendations may feel like an inconvenience, but it’s the best way right now to protect our family, friends, and neighbors who may be vulnerable.
Thank you,
GLenda, Charlie and David Cates
