In the U. S. and many other countries, the COVID vaccine is free to all residents. As of November 2022, only the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is approved for use in anyone 5 years and older. [2] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Your child will need 2 doses of this vaccine, and will be considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after getting their second dose. [3] X Research source
Most kids can wear a mask safely. However, if you’re worried about what wearing a mask will mean for your child, talk to their pediatrician.
To keep it easy for younger kids, explain that they should try to stay a couple of arms’ lengths away from other people.
If your child’s school allows it, have them carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. They can rub their hands with the sanitizer whenever they don’t have easy access to soap and water.
Asthma Diabetes Cancer Other conditions that affect the immune system Obesity
People at high risk of severe illness from COVID include older adults (people over 50), people with medical conditions (such as lung, kidney, or heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or any condition that affects the immune system), and pregnant people or those who have recently given birth. [16] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Having kids eat lunch at their desks or outdoors instead of in a crowded cafeteria or lunch hall. Keeping classrooms and other learning spaces well-ventilated whenever possible. Breaking classes up into smaller groups so that there’s less crowding in the classroom. Limiting how often kids have to move from one classroom or learning space to another.
Doing regular health screenings or administering COVID tests to students and staff, especially if they haven’t been vaccinated. Keeping track of any exposures that happen in the school or community that might put students or staff at risk. Identifying high-risk students or staff members and giving them extra accommodations to make sure they stay safe. Notifying parents if their child may have been exposed to COVID.
Teach your kids to wash their hands all over with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. It might help to have them sing the ABC song or “Happy Birthday” to make sure they’re washing long enough. [22] X Research source
For example, say something like, “The mask will help keep you, your friends, and your family safe. When everyone wears masks, the virus can’t spread from one person to another so easily. ” You can also set a good example by wearing a mask any time you and your child are out in public—even if you’ve already been vaccinated. If your child is frustrated about having to wear a mask in school, let them know that you sympathize and that it’s okay to feel that way. Say something like, “I know it’s a pain, and I wish it didn’t have to be this way. But it’s really important that we all wear masks to keep each other safe. ”[24] X Research source
You could even have them help you make a mask at home. Ask them to choose the fabric pattern they like best.
Letting your child see you and other family members wearing a mask will also help them get used to the idea of interacting with other people in masks.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings, but stay calm and positive. For instance, you might say something like, “I know you’re nervous honey. But I’m going to do everything I can to keep you safe, and so will your teachers. ”[30] X Trustworthy Source Child Mind Institute Nonprofit organization providing evidence-based care for children with mental health and learning disorders and their families Go to source
For example, you might explain that they’ll be wearing masks in class and that the school nurse will take their temperature at the door when they walk in. Sit down with your child and come up with a list of any questions they might have. If you don’t know the answers, say something like, “Those are good questions! I’m not sure, but I’ll call the school and find out. ”[32] X Trustworthy Source Child Mind Institute Nonprofit organization providing evidence-based care for children with mental health and learning disorders and their families Go to source
If you have an older child, put it in perspective by explaining that the benefits of going back to school outweigh the risks. Say something like, “There’s no way to be 100% sure you won’t get sick. But we’ve talked to the teacher and your doctor, and they think the risks are really small. We all agree that it’s really important for you to go back to school. ”
Maintaining a distance of at least 3 feet (0. 91 m) between children on the bus (this may mean that each child will need to sit by themselves in an assigned seat). [35] X Research source Keeping the buses clean and sanitary between trips. Providing hand sanitizer on the bus. Keeping windows open on the bus as much as possible for better ventilation.
Carpooling is also an option, but stick to small groups and make sure everyone wears a mask. If your child carpools, have them ride with the same people as much as possible instead of switching between different groups. [37] X Research source
Have extracurricular activities and sports take place outdoors as much as possible. Limit close contact between players (e. g. , by having the kids play touch football instead of full contact). Sanitize equipment properly and limit equipment sharing between students. Require students and staff to wear masks during activities. Do regular health screenings or COVID tests for any activities that require close contact (like full-contact sports). Cut down on in-person interactions as much as possible (e. g. , by holding club meetings over zoom).
In general, if your child spent more than 15 minutes with an infected person and they were closer than 6 feet (1. 8 m) apart during that time, this would be considered a “close contact. ”
A loss of taste or smell A sore throat Fatigue Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or a stomachache Headaches or body aches Loss of appetite
A fever that lasts more than 2-3 days A rash Red or bloodshot eyes Neck pain Swollen lymph nodes Severe stomach issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea Redness or swelling of the lips and tongue Swollen hands or feet Unusual irritability or sleepiness
If remote schooling options aren’t available where you live, you might be able to use alternative approaches, like homeschooling your child. You’ll need to research local requirements and regulations to find out if this is possible for you. In some countries, like the UK, you may be fined if you choose to keep your child home from school. [44] X Research source
Work together with your child’s school and their healthcare provider to determine the best and safest approach for your family.
