Back-to-School Safety Tips for Parents and Kids

As summer draws to a close, many children across the country are looking forward to going back to school. They anticipate reuniting with friends, beginning the next grade level, and learning about all sorts of new and exciting things. While this may be an exciting time for most kids, parents may be feeling more trepidacious.  The idea of returning to school during a pandemic may be unsettling for parents.  If you find yourself feeling anxious about the prospect of your child returning to school this fall, know that you’re not alone. Fortunately, we have come up with a list of back-to-school safety tips to help ease your mind and ensure your kids’ safety upon returning to school!

Practice social distancing

Sitting or standing too close to others can increase the risk of contracting germs such as those caused by the coronavirus. This is where the importance of “social distancing” comes in. Social distancing (or physical distancing) is the practice of putting enough space between yourself and others in order to reduce the likelihood of virus transmission.

While schools play an important role in implementing social distancing both inside and outside the classroom, it’s also imperative that parents remind children to maintain a safe distance from others as well. Children should also avoid sharing food, drinks and any other personal items. 

Wear a mask

Children are no exception when it comes to the importance of wearing a mask. Face coverings are crucial as there may be times when maintaining a safe distance from others becomes impossible or challenging.

Make sure your little one always wears a mask in public places, especially at school. The transmission of the virus can happen instantly when there is no face protection. Infectious respiratory droplets from an infected individual can be released into the air when he or she breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. Ensure that your child has an extra layer of protection by providing a mask. 

Remember to include masks on your list when you purchase school supplies. Have your child wear a mask as soon as he or she steps out of the house, and be sure to include a “back-up” mask if a replacement is needed during the day. 

Keep hands clean

With or without a pandemic, proper and frequent hand-washing is one of the most important habits parents need to teach their children. Regular hand-washing can help protect your child from contracting  germs and viruses that cause illness. Teach your little one the importance of keeping hand-washing. Encourage young children to practice this habit before and after meals, after playing with  toys, after playing outside, and before they touch their face.

At times when hand-washing isn’t possible, for example if children are in a classroom that doesn’t have a sink, it is recommended that your child use hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol. Furthermore, children should be reminded to cover their faces with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Boost your child’s immune system

Another back-to-school safety tip you shouldn’t overlook is helping to strengthen your child’s immune system. A strong immune system can help keep your child from contracting viruses and other diseases. Strengthen your little one’s ability to fight off sickness by ensuring proper nutrition. Limit children’s intake of unhealthy foods like sugary and salty treats. Instead, encourage children to eat a balanced diet, and always incorporate fruits and vegetables into your family’s meals. Remember to also prioritize quality sleep and make sure your kids get at least eight hours of sleep every night.

Closely monitor their health

Checking your child’s health and wellness should always be one of your top priorities as a parent. Therefore, be sure to always monitor your child’s health condition. Don’t ignore minor symptoms. A simple fever or cold may seem harmless, but it’s always better to be sure. Be sure to follow your child’s scheduled check-ups regularly  and don’t put off consulting with a doctor if you notice anything strange or unusual.

Listen to your child’s concerns

As a parent, one of the most important roles you play is being your child’s confidante and advocate. If your child voices any anxiety or concerns about returning to school amidst the pandemic,  be available to listen. Discuss all of the health and safety measures that will be followed at school, and assure them you’re doing everything you can to ensure their health and safety as well. 

It’s understandable how parents like you may feel anxious about your child returning to school. By following these back-to-school safety tips, and choosing the best educational child care setting that prioritizes your child’s wellness and safety, you can put your mind at ease and be assured of their safe and continued quality learning. Give us a call at Imagine Nation Learning Center for more information. 

 

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5 Ways to Practice Playful Parenting

Playing is an innate part of childhood that especially comes naturally to young kids. Children engage in play not only for fun but also as a means to learning and exploring the world around them. However, for busy parents trying to strike a balance between the demands of work and home, play can often be the last thing on our minds. But what if you were told that “playful parenting” actually plays an important role in the formation of a deeper bond between you and your child? Making time for playful parenting can also help to lighten the mood in a stressful home as it creates a positive atmosphere. Perhaps you recognize the importance of incorporating play into the time you spend with your child, but you just don’t know where to start.

Many parents find it challenging to interact on their child’s level and engage in fun play together. If you find yourself caught in this dilemma, you’re not alone. Read on and learn some helpful tips to practice playful parenting in your home.

Begin the day with play

One of the first things that comes into  the mind of a young child the moment he or she opens his or her eyes in the morning is playing. Young children may immediately think about their toys and the games they plan to play throughout the day. Just thinking about the fun that awaits them often makes them giddy and excited. But who says children are the only ones who can benefit from play? Starting the day being playful with your child can help energize you and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. 

Make it a habit to start your day with your child  by incorporating time for play. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy session of play. It can be quick, even while you’re preparing breakfast. Or you may spend a few minutes taking your little one outside for some quick outdoor play while enjoying some sunshine. It’s not difficult to incorporate a little playtime into your morning routine. In no time you’ll see that it can work wonders!

Dedicate a time for play

If it’s impossible to engage in a little playtime in the morning, try to find a different time or hour you can dedicate to playing with your little one.. Allocate a 30-minute or even one-hour window for some playful bonding time with your child. You can be spontaneous as you come up with different games to play… or better yet, encourage your little one to spearhead the planning!

Let young children come up with a list of games you can play together, as well as the toys and supplies that will be needed. Allowing them the chance to do the planning and make choices is highly beneficial to the relationship between you and your child. One of the only times you should be involved in directing the activity is when safety is a factor. Otherwise, have fun channeling the inner child in you as you engage and enjoy this precious bonding activity with your little one!

Use dolls and puppets

Many young kids like to use dolls or puppets in their pretend play. They also respond well when these types of toys are incorporated into playtime  because it can stimulate their imagination and spark their creativity. Don’t be afraid to be silly when playing with puppets! Have fun as you develop silly and interesting characters that make play time more fun and exciting! You can be goofy and use different voices to represent each character, which also makes it easier for your child to distinguish between characters.

Turn mundane tasks into fun games

Do you find it challenging to squeeze playtime into your extremely busy day? You can make household chores and routine tasks more fun by incorporating play. For example, you can turn collecting clothes from the clothesline into a race! Or perhaps put on upbeat music in the background while you clean around the house so you and your little one can sing and dance as you tidy up!

Not only is incorporating fun play into household tasks an excellent way to make something that is typically boring and tiring lighter and more fun. It can also be a terrific way to teach young kids about household chores. 

Revisit classic games

Some classic games from our own youth never get old! Take a trip down memory lane and recall some of your favorite games from your own childhood. Which games did you enjoy most? Now is a perfect time to introduce these activities to your kids and play them together!

Playful parenting can benefit your kids and the whole family in many ways. Follow these tips to help you jumpstart your journey through playful parenting with your little one

For more helpful resources on parenting, or if you’re looking for a great preschool for your child, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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