How to Protect Your Children From COVID-19

Although children do not seem to be at a higher risk for COVID-19 than adults, there are several steps that you as a parent can take to protect them from getting sick. First, it is important to make sure children wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use  alcohol based sanitizer. Second, cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks) will help to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Finally, it is important to wash plush toys and clothes in the warmest setting possible.

In addition to making sure to take sanitary precautions, it is essential to limit social interactions and practice social distancing. If tutoring takes place one on one, the tutor and student should try to sit 6 feet apart. The tutor can use a whiteboard to teach content or a computer to edit and help with essays or share math content. Ideally, online tutoring is the best option if your child can focus and learn in this way. Finally, Children should be encouraged to “hang out” with their friends online or outside in a one on one setting vs indoor play. 

Children may present milder symptoms at first although the symptoms are similar in children and adults. Symptoms to look for in children include  cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough as well as even vomiting and diarrhea. If your child has underlying medical conditions, they are at a higher risk for severe illness. While COVID-19 scares many parents, there are many precautions that you can take to limit the risk to your child.