Coronavirus And Parenting: What You Need To Know Now

Closure Decisions

School closures during the pandemic are a complex decision with significant public health implications. Corey Turner and Anya Kamenetz discuss how closing schools early can help slow the spread of disease, but it also poses challenges for millions of children who rely on schools for meals and stability 1. They emphasize the importance of community support to help vulnerable children during these closures.

In this country, we have nearly 30 million kids who depend on schools for free or reduced price meals.

--- Corey Turner

Additionally, they highlight the need for social distancing and creative solutions to maintain social interactions while keeping safety in mind 1.

   

Social Implications

The social implications of school closures extend beyond academics, affecting children's mental health and social interactions. Corey Turner and Anya Kamenetz suggest outdoor activities and creative screen time as ways to maintain social connections and mental well-being 2. They stress the importance of understanding teens' online social spaces and using screen time for educational and interactive purposes 3.

You might want to divide your screen time into vegetables and dessert and not just let them do entertainment all day.

--- Anya Kamenetz

By incorporating activities like video chats, online learning, and physical exercises, families can foster a balanced routine that supports both mental and physical health 3.