Curtailing stress levels is critical for our emotional and
physical health. This is not only true for us adults, but for our children as
well. After nearly two years of lockdowns, distance learning, social
distancing, and virus-anxiety, there has beyond a doubt been an impact on children’s
behaviors.
اضافة اعلان
While adults may be more likely to recognize signs of stress
and verbalize their emotions, children are less likely to understand what they
are feeling, let alone tell us what is bothering them. Parents often ask me: How
can we help our children cope and at the same time keep them safe?
As a triple-board certified pediatrician dedicated to the
improvement of children’s physical, emotional, and social lives, I will present
three easy steps to make the back-to-school transition as easy as possible this
year — for you and for your kids.
Step 1: Follow the latest COVID-19 safety guidelines
Since COVID-19 was first isolated in late 2019, safety
guidelines have been updated regularly as more information is gained about the
virus, and as new variants surge in different populations and age groups.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 has also fueled rumors and
conspiracy theories — some of which have been linked to increases in
hospitalization rates and deaths. It is therefore exceedingly important to
follow trusted sources, such as the latest safety guidelines
from the CDC. Here is a checklist of topics you should be acquainted
with:
• Each school may develop their own policies depending on their
community and local mandates. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the
school’s guidelines and that they meet, or exceed, those suggested by the CDC.
• All children 12 years and older are currently able to
receive the COVID-19 vaccine and should be fully immunized as soon as possible.
The safety profile of approved vaccines has been thoroughly studied since the
beginning of the pandemic and it is far, far safer to get the vaccine than to
get the disease.
• Acquaint yourself with the school’s COVID-19 testing and
reporting policies and discuss with your pediatrician how any cases might affect
your family and their possible need to quarantine.
Step 2: Be prepared for a surge of other infections
As children return to school and mingle with each other they
will share stories, laughs, and also germs! We expect a substantial increase in
children developing a variety of viral infections this school year. That’s why
it is so important to take every precaution to keep our kids as healthy as
possible — and here are some helpful tips:
• Research has shown that the most effective way to reduce the
transmission of diseases is by doing two simple things: washing your hands, and
not touching your face (eyes, nose, mouth, or ears). Reinforce these habits in
your children.
• Regular sleep has been shown to be strongly correlated with immune
system health and even determine the effectiveness of vaccines. Given the
importance of sleep for immune function, establishing a regular schedule of between
8 to 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep will help your child immensely.
• Eating healthy has long been linked with improved immunity
and the age-old saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is rooted in
the importance of proper nutrition. Check with your pediatrician to assess your
child’s eating habits and if any supplements may be recommended.
Step 3: Give your children time to adjust
Remember that children absorb our feelings, so stay calm and
positive when discussing recent events (such as COVID-19), regardless of their impact on your personal life or career. Encourage activities
such as going for a walk or playing together. And last, but certainly not
least, use time together (such as at the dinner table or during car rides to
and from school), to check on your child’s well-being.
Anxiety in children can present itself as headaches, stomach aches, crankiness, and sadness.
Be attuned to your child’s
mental health and seek your pediatrician’s guidance whenever necessary.
Finally, life will slowly return to normal, and we should all work together to ensure
a smooth
transition.
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