Children and COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms in children may be similar to a common respiratory virus and milder than symptoms adults experience. Some children with COVID-19 may not have any symptoms. Even so, these children can spread the disease to others. Here are the symptoms to watch for in children:

• Fever
• Symptoms of respiratory infection
• Cough
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose

Help Your Kids Stay Healthy

Help your children stay healthy by encouraging them to:

• Wash with soap and water for 20 seconds (sing the happy birthday song with your children so they will know how long to wash).
• If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that is 60 percent or higher alcohol-based.
• Teach your children to avoid touching their faces.
• Avoid people who are coughing and sneezing or who have other symptoms of being sick.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of their elbow. (throw away the tissue immediately and wash hands after coughing or sneezing)

There are no official guidelines for children and face coverings yet. Experts, however, say that children under the age of two should not wear face coverings. For now, its up to parents to decide whether or not their children will wear face coverings in public. If you do decide your children should wear face coverings, its good to explain why with a direct, age-appropriate conversation.

 

Ways to Keep Kids Active and Learning

Kids thrive on routine so the changes brought on by COVID-19 may be distressing to them. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers ideas on smoothing the transition for your children.

Encourage your children to play outdoors during this time. Its good for their physical and mental health to get out of the house and away from electronics. Because social distancing can be a challenge for children, get your family together for a walk with you or take a bike ride. Here are some AAP recommendations for having family fun while social distancing.

Introduce your kids to GoNoodle for a great way to keep them active and engaged. These online movement and mindfulness videos will have your children dancing, stretching and learning.

  YRMC covers the subscription cost of Go Noodle Plus– the premium version – for parents and teachers in our service area. Create an account at GoNoodle. For more information, check out this YRMC HealthConnect article on GoNoodle.

 

Keep Your Home Clean and Sanitized


• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks).
• Launder items like washable plush toys more frequently, following the manufacturer’s instructions. • Wash clothing, towels and all items using the warmest water setting possible and dry items completely. Laundry from an ill person can be washed with other items.