After a year dealing with the ups and downs of pandemic-era schooling, many parents are anticipating their children’s return to school with mixed emotions. covid 19
It’s normal for children to catch a cold or get sick. While not every illness is COVID-19, we must consider it a possibility. As well as protecting your own child, it’s important to try and help slow the spread of infection to others.
Make sure that vaccine status is up-to-date
Vaccines are the best way to prevent the spread of 16 different diseases. Data showed that during the pandemic, there was a steep drop in the number of children who received vaccines they need on time.
Vaccines are important in building children’s immunities and providing defense mechanisms against many diseases. Since COVID-19 vaccines are not yet approved for use in children under 12, it is critical to do everything possible to prevent other diseases in this age group. Ask your pediatrician about your child’s vaccination status and if there is any missing immunization need. covid 19
We recommend also having a seasonal flu vaccine for all family members during September/October, before the beginning of flu season.
Make handwashing a habit
Hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness. Ordinary soap is as good as other sanitizers (and safer). However, when hand washing is not possible, hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol is the next best way to kill germs.
Establish a good sleep routine
Making sure your children get enough sleep is important to keep them healthy. In fact, studies show that inadequate sleep (either in duration or quality) can lead to poor concentration, obesity, depression, and can affect mental and physical growth.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children aged 6–12 years should regularly sleep 9–12 hours per day and teenagers aged 13–18 years should sleep 8–10 hours per day.
- Build a consistent sleep schedule during the school week and weekends. This means going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning.
- Limit light exposure in the evenings. covid 19
- Set up a calm sleeping environment. Make sure your child’s bedroom is comfortable, dark, cool, and quiet. Try to limit where your children may use electronic devices (for example, not in their child’s bedroom).
- Set clear limits. Such as what time lights must be turned off and how many bedtime stories you will read to avoid children stalling at bedtime
- Screen curfew. Turn off televisions, computers, radios, online-game playing, internet use, and other stimulating activities at least 1 hour before bedtime.
- Avoid caffeine. Caffeine can be found in sodas, coffee-based products, iced tea, and many other substances.
- Contact your child’s doctor. If your child has difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep, snores, experiences unusual awakenings, or has sleep problems that are causing disruption during the day. covid 19
Remember to always encourage your children to ask questions and express their feelings with you and their teachers. Be aware that your child may have different reactions to stress; be patient and understanding. Also, do not forget to coordinate with the school to receive information and ask about school safety efforts and regulations.
Wishing you and your children a healthy, safe back to school!
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This article was brought to you by Tabibi 24/7, Cairo’s leading Family Medicine & Pediatrics group practice. Tabibi operates 24/7 and offers its services at the comfort of your own home or in one of its clinics.
