A back-to-school photo quickly went viral, depicting a crowded Georgia high school hallway with mask-wearing all but nonexistent. The story further made headlines when the principal of the school suspended students who took photos of that first day, telling them there would be “consequences” for students who posted images on social media.
In stark contrast, Alabama principal Quentin Lee made a catchy and fun but serious parody of MC Hammer’s “Can’t Touch This” song as it relates to wearing masks, using hand sanitizer and disinfecting surfaces throughout the school day.
As schools reopen, these varied responses to the global pandemic have parents wondering how they can talk to their kids about going back to school. Encouraging kids to maintain social distancing and stressing the importance of wearing masks is imperative. Here are a few ways to start the conversations.
The COVID-19 talk: Teaching kids the importance of mask-wearing and social distancing
Tips for parents of kids heading back to school during COVID-19
Schools are doing their best to make social distancing easy for kids by following CDC school reopening guidance. Some elementary school teachers are even coming up with fun and creative desk configurations to help students maintain social distancing. In addition to having the important conversations discussed above, here are a few things parents can do.
- Stock kids’ backpacks with items that help slow the spread of COVID-19
- Purchase masks that your child will enjoy wearing
- Make a cloth face covering with your kids
As schools begin to reopen, talking to kids candidly and at an age-appropriate level about wearing masks and social distancing should be a part of the regular back-to-school routine. Conversations are likely going to need to be repeated, especially in the first few months, as everyone is settling in to this “new normal” we all hate to talk about.
