The back-to-school season is bringing some unusual concern for parents during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. If your young one is heading back to school to learn in a classroom, there will be some changes they need to make this year. While you should take them to the doctor for a physical before classes start, here are a few ways to protect them, their classmates, and their teachers so everyone can learn in a safe and healthy environment.

What Are Some Rules Children Should Follow This Back-to-School Season?

1. Maintain Social Distancing

By staying a safe distance from others, children can prevent the spread of the virus. Germs cannot be spread from a distance, and doctors recommend six feet if possible. They should follow their teachers’ instructions regarding where to sit and how to stay away from other classmates.

Take them to school yourself, so they do not have to take public transportation or carpool. They should wear a face mask while at school or otherwise in public. You can get them excited about this by letting them pick out their own in a design they like.

2. Wash Hands Frequently

Handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Teach the kids to wash their hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds while singing happy birthday to themselves. They should scrub between fingers and under the nails. They should always wash their hands before leaving the bathroom, before eating, after touching others, and after blowing their nose, sneezing, or coughing. They can carry hand sanitizer in their backpack, but soap and water are best when possible.

3. Stay Home When Sick  

This year, it is more important than ever to skip school if your child is showing any physical symptoms. Even mild symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or a sore throat mean that your young one should stay home. When in doubt, always stay home. If symptoms persist for a few days or get worse, you can take them to the medical clinic for a physical or coronavirus test.

If your young student is feeling unwell, you can trust they’ll get the best treatment at Patients First Medical Clinic in Anchorage, AK. Their board-certified medical staff has more than 150 years of combined experience providing quality care with state-of-the-art equipment to local families. To keep your health care affordable, they accept a variety of insurance plans and Medicare. Schedule a physical online or by calling (907) 333-7425.