Is your child returning to in-person school this fall?
Here’s what you should keep in mind during the transition.
By now, you probably know whether or not your school district has decided on an in-person or virtual school for your child or teen this semester. And by now, you probably have a number of thoughts and feelings about that. In a couple of weeks, I will address parents of students who will be learning virtually this semester, but today, I want to address parents of children who will be returning to the classroom in person.
As a parent, you may feel good about this. You know your child needs to return a regular rhythm and so do you. Or, you may feel deeply concerned. You’re not sure if your child will be safe at school, and you’re worried about the teachers and staff who are at higher risk for illness.
First let me say, any response to in-person school is valid. It’s normal to be experiencing a mix of emotions right now.
This is an unprecedented time not only for you but for government and healthcare officials. We are all trying to do the best we can with the information we have.
That said, you can take some precautions to ensure your child, and you and your family, stay safe as your child returns to school.
Stay informed.
Do you know what precautions your child’s school is taking to protect students and staff? If you don’t, contact your child’s teacher and make sure her school has precautions in place.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has several recommendations for schools on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Some of these recommendations include:
- Physical distancing: Having children stay six feet apart from each other when not in the classroom and placing desks three feet apart.
- Mask requirements: All adults should wear masks or face coverings at all times, as adults are more susceptible to contract and spread the illness.
- Classroom changes: Teachers are also encouraged to change classrooms, rather than having students change classrooms for each class. Students should also be able to eat in their classrooms at their desks rather than in a cafeteria.
The AAP also recommends frequent temperature checks of students when a student is exhibiting symptoms, consistent cleaning, and disinfecting of classrooms and common areas.
You can also ask your child’s school what its plan is should a child test positive for COVID. Many schools have protocols in place to ensure immediate isolation of any student who is sick as well as whatever students he or she has been in close contact with.