First State Times

Marcus Hook Elementary School issued the following announcement on April 23

1. Routines are very important for young children. Disasters, forced isolation, and other traumatic situations often break usual routines. Creating new routines or re-establishing usual routines can help children feel safe. Keeping regular mealtimes and bedtimes, setting a daily time to play games together, read to them, or allow them to feel more in control, let them select an activity. 

2. While schools are teaching online, explain that it is to keep everyone as healthy and safe as possible and that it is only temporary. Young children may not understand why things have changed. Talking with them will help them feel supported by you. Help the children in a way that is appropriate for their age. Keep explanations simple. 

3. Take care of yourself. This is very important. Even if young children are not directly exposed to the trauma, they can recognize stress and worry in older children and adults in the house. 

4. Help your child understand why they should wash their hands after sneezing, coughing, blowing their nose or using the toilet. When reinforcing handwashing suggest they choose a song to sing that lasts 20 seconds. Encourage your child to take part in age appropriate self-care and ask them ways they can stay as healthy as possible. 

5. Try to arrange for your child to connect with friends and family through electronic means. 

6. Your child may hear things that are untrue or exaggerated which can increase fears. Reassure your child that they can come to you to ask questions. You may also want to monitor exposure to media outlets.  

7. Your child may hear things that are untrue or exaggerated which can increase fears. Reassure your child that they can come to you to ask questions. You may also want to monitor exposure to media outlets.  

8. Your child may respond differently depending on their age and development. Watch for changes in behavior. If you become increasingly concerned about your child’s behaviors or emotions, please contact your child’s primary care provider.

Find more answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19. Please note this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. We encourage you to refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a reliable source for the most updated information as it becomes available, in addition to updated guidance.

Original source can be found here.