The new school term is about to begin and it’s a tall order to find the best ways to not only keep students safe but to also ensure that they can learn and thrive in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Students learn best in person, but it’s imperative that the right approach is applied in opening schools for the upcoming school year. A layered approach that involves multiple measures to limit the risk of COVID-19 spread is necessary to ensure the safety of all students, teachers, and staff. Schooling will not be the same and students will have to adapt to the new changes, which is why it’s important for parents to make a concerted effort to communicate with their children about what to expect at school. You have to prepare them for the new realities of their school life. 

Talk About Hygiene and Mask Protocols

Some schools will not reopen in a traditional setting, and will instead be in a remote learning setting. Depending on the type of school setting that your children will return to, you may have to tell them about the importance of hygiene and mask protocols, even though you know that local conditions could lead to changes later on. Start talking to your children now about how to properly place the mask on and remove it, as well as how to best care for the mask. At home is a good place for practicing routine wearing of the mask so you can make corrections and ensure proper usage according to the guidelines. You want them to familiarize themselves with and get as comfortable as possible by wearing their mask for long periods. This is also a good time to review the handwashing technique and drive the message home of frequently washing their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. For young children, have them sing the chorus of their favorite song twice while washing hands.

The New Classroom: In-person Learning & Remote Learning

During this COVID-19 pandemic, physically going back to school, in person, students will either be required or recommended to wear masks and observe and practice social distancing. Explain to your children why social distancing is important, and while they are around family, use the opportunity to teach them how to maintain social distance. It’s especially critical that they know not to share food or drink. Kids will be curious as to why they can’t be close to their friends but explain to them that they must follow the guidelines established by health experts to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

For children participating in remote learning, it’s vital that they have all the resources and support they need to do well outside of the traditional school setting. They may not be happy with this form of learning environment but explain to them that this is what is best at the moment to ensure their safety. Let them know that they are not alone and that their teachers and you will be there to guide them every step of the way. If they can have their own space for learning, let them help to decorate it and add their personal touch. 

How to Continue Talking to Your Child About COVID-19

The last thing you want to do is scare your child with COVID-19-related subject matter. Be honest when children ask questions while sharing age-appropriate information. It helps to explain to your children that we are still learning about the coronavirus and let them know that at any time their school situation could change. However, it’s vital that as you prepare your children for back to school, you reassure them that the changes are happening to ensure their safety.

COVID-19 Testing & Walk-In Flu Shots in Hillsdale, NJ

School as your children know it has changed, and you have to prepare them for the new classroom, whether they are returning to in-person learning or remote learning. Visit AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale today for school physicals and student care that will have your child healthy and ready for the new school year. Our team will provide convenient and timely service that you can rely on. We also offer COVID-19 testing after telemedicine screenings. For questions, please call 201-523-9222.