Back to School preparation entails much more this year than just the usual shopping for supplies, clothes and determining schedules. It is important to also prepare for a safe return to school while also keeping check on tasks that can help students stay healthy throughout the year. This isn’t a guarantee from illness, but a few reminders to follow to keep your child as safe as possible:
Screen your children daily for any of the symptoms of COVID-19 that include:
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chills
Repeated shaking with chills
Muscle pain
Headache
Sore throat
Loss of taste or smell
Diarrhea
Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit
Known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19
Make sure your child has a cloth face covering and practices frequent hand washing
Practice distancing at a minimum of six feet in the classroom
Follow proper nutrition for a healthy diet
Make sure student is current on immunizations
Allow for exercise as physical activity can keep the immune system strong
Keep in check behavioral and mental health. Schools offer programs that can assist students with dealing with the added stress of the pandemic. Please reach out to your school for resources if your student seems to be struggling with coping.