As both the Thanksgiving and Christmas break for schools approaches, children may want to play with friends now more than ever. The pandemic has been stressful for everyone including children. Socializing and interacting with peers can be a healthy way for children to cope with stress and connect with others.1 However, the key to slowing the spread of COVID-19 is to limit close contact with others as much as possible. It is important to remember that the more people your child interacts with, and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.1
The CDC explains the different risk levels relating to playdates1:
- High risk activities: Frequent indoor playdates with multiple friends or families who are not practicing everyday preventive measures. Children do not maintain a distance of 6 feet from each other.
- Medium risk activities: Infrequent playdates with the same family or friend who is also practicing everyday preventive measures. Children maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from each other during the playdate and the playdate is usually held outside.
- Low risk activities: No in-person playdates. Children connect virtually (via phone calls and video chats).
Children aged two and older should wear a mask when in public and around other people who do not live in their home. If your child plays with other children, it is important to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, TV remotes, and light switches. Remind your child that practicing proper hand washing skills everyday will help to keep them healthy. Parents can be the best example for teaching their child how to be safe. This is involves being a role model by always wearing a mask, practicing consistent hand washing, keeping a safe distance from others. For more information on how to keep your family safe while at home, visit our website here.
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