Remember the smell of popcorn, corn dogs, and the sounds of the rides at the CNE?
Any other year, this would be happening now. The big finally of the summer; however, not this year.
COVID-19 has brought some challenges to everyone, especially the physical and mental health of our most valuable possessions, our children. No, more than ever people are concerned about kids returning to school. Do we home school or send the kids to school?
How do we keep safe in this unique return to school. Here are some tips to help you and your family stay safe this year.
1.) Wear a mask. Simply put, as an airborn disease, our most effective tool that we have is a mask to protect others. It can be difficult to get kids to wear a mask all day; however, you can try to make it fun with different prints, even funny faces. Having a spare mask in a zip lock bag in your kids backpack is good in case they “lose it” on the playground. Don’t forget to wash the mask when they get home.
2.) Wash your hands. Many people are seen wearing gloves all around, sadly, gloves are ONLY effective if you touch a single surface. The moment your start touching multiple surfaces while wearing gloves you start spreading the virus. Remember, COVID19 cannot infect you through your hands. The most effective way to protect your hands is to use simple soap and water. If you don’t have access to soap and water, then go ahead an use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
3.) Decontaminate. When your pressure little one has come home, clean the bag and contents with either soap and water, or a disinfectant spray. Careful using alcohol on material as it can dry it out and break it down. Don’t forget to wash the mask.
4.) Get some fresh air. Kids (and parents) have been cooped up all day in front of a computer or staying in the same room all day. Take a break and GET OUTSIDE. Let the children play outside, and more importantly, join them! Running, biking, walking, playing basketball, soccer, all sorts of different activities can be done outside. The fresh air and exercise will keep you healthy, give you energy and make you feel better.
5.) Involve your kids. Get your kids involved with the household duties. Give them a night that they are responsible for getting dinner ready. Teach your children how to cook healthy meals. This becomes more valuable as they grow up. There are many online resources available to try out different recipes. No matter the age, children love to help prepare meals with you.
6.) Unplug. Yes, it’s a hard thing to do, but unplugging at the end of the day is probably more important today than ever before. Once the homework is done, shut down the technology. Spend time together. Dust off the board games or have the kids create their own game. Your mental health will thank you.
