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are accustomed to group play, re- cess, and lunch time. Start teach- ing children to be aware of their surroundings and keep their dis- tance from others. Talk to them about personal space and find creative ways to demonstrate how germs are spread. W EARING A M ASK Wearing a mask will also be a difficult matter for young chil- dren who may want to take their mask off or touch their face. Be- gin teaching them about wearing a mask before school starts and gradually work them up to wear- ing their mask for an extended period of time. Adorning a mask with their favorite cartoon char- acter or superhero can make wearing a mask easier for chil- dren. Whatever mask you and your child choose, ensure it fits properly. The mask should not slide off their face or tug behind their ears. Be sure to keep several masks on hand to allow for masks to be washed daily and to pro- vide a backup mask when needed. I NCREASED R ISKS Events or other situations which gather crowds will be a unique challenge that may present itself to schools and colleges. From choir practices to contact sports, it may be difficult for kids to remember social distanc- ing guidelines. Help them by providing a vi- sual for maintaining a six-foot distance when necessary, such as staying two arm lengths away from their peers. College-aged young adults may be at par- ticular risk due to the various on-campus activities they may be accustomed to. Re- mind your college bound teens to avoid large gatherings such as parties where social dis- tancing guidelines will not be enforced and mask wearing may be forgotten. Remind them to wash their hands frequently and wear their mask when in areas such as in the classroom or cafeteria. M ENTAL H EALTH Whether your child is returning to a traditional classroom setting or resuming online instruction, they may be struggling to cope with all the changes happening in their lives. If they are returning to school, they may feel pressure to “catch up” to other kids who may have excelled with online learning or had access to more re- sources. Help your child feel comfortable asking questions or talk- ing to their teacher if they need more help. Encourage your child to talk about their day so you can help them navigate difficult emotions. If your child is continuing online learning, they may be missing their friends and the social setting of traditional school. Set up virtual play dates for them to stay connected to their peers. Setting a routine at home may also help them establish a sense of normalcy in a new routine. I MMUNIZATIONS While families were encouraged to stay at home, some children may have fallen behind on necessary vaccinations. Schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to discuss their vacci- nation schedule and voice any other concerns you may have re- garding your child’s health needs. It is also important for your child to receive a flu shot this year to help prevent the spread of seasonal flu in the fall and winter. Encourage your child to write down any questions they may have for their doctor. Allowing them to ask their own questions may help ease their fears regarding their health and safety. While this school year will present new challenges, preparation and routine can help any child and parent cope during this new normal. Remember to take time to talk as a family and provide an outlet for each other to discuss feelings or concerns. Although our day to day lives look a bit different, outdoor activities such as neighborhood walks or a backyard game are good ways to relax, relieve stress, and have fun together! n Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 15 The Jackson Clinic is here for your entire family, from birth to adulthood. The Jackson Clinic Pediatrics can take care of your children by providing routine vaccinations and well child checkups, while our Family Medicine physicians can see children ages 12 and up for routine and acute care. Visit www.jacksonclinic.org to find a physician today. .........................................................................................................................