This has been an unprecedented year that has had numerous ups and downs that many of us have never experienced in our lifetimes. Between health issues with COVID, lockdowns, and even making the behavioral changes to follow the guidelines for the global pandemic, we’ve all been taken out of our comfort zones. Now we need to learn how to keep our kids safe from COVID this winter.
This is likely easier for adults to conceptualize as we understand why it’s important to do our part to keep everyone safe. However, this is much more difficult for children. It is so important to keep kids safe from COVID this winter as many children can be more vulnerable to the virus especially if they have conditions such as asthma or allergies. Below you will find some of the best tips for how to keep your child safe and healthy this winter.
Keep Kids Safe from COVID This Winter
Go Virtual:
The advent of technology has had its ups and downs over the past few decades in terms of how it has changed social interactions. However, virtual options for events are one of the best alternatives to in-person events this year. While there is nothing like an in-person gathering where you can hug your family, one year of virtual events will make the next holiday season all the more special. This is especially true for family members who are older, who have underlying conditions, and children who suffer from issues such as asthma or allergies.
Control the Family Narrative:
Children who are at risk of COVID may have fears about how they can be affected. They also may feel like they are being left out or falling behind in certain areas. Talk with your children and let them now that this difficult time is only temporary. Even if things don’t go back entirely to how they were before, a new normal is healthy, and it will not be this difficult forever. Children feed off of adult energy, so remaining positive is vital. For those who have children with allergies or asthma, it’s also important to talk to them about the importance of keeping themselves safe, including mask-wearing and social distancing.
Be Creative:
Life as a parent can be difficult under normal circumstances. The struggles of being a parent during COVID is off the charts in terms of craziness, especially if you have a child with an underlying illness like asthma or COPD. Give yourself credit for providing your family with all the necessities. But, try and dig deep to get creative with how you can keep your family sane. Your children’s social, emotional, and physical development is important. So try and think of creative ways to challenge them. This will keep their mind off of COVID, and it may help keep yours off of it as well! For children with allergies and COPD, focus on activities with the people in your household only. Fun games like cornhole, baking cookies, and even family trivia can prove a great way to ensure your child doesn’t feel left out. Talk with a pediatric pulmonologist NYC to see what physical activities would be acceptable outside for a child who suffers from allergies or asthma.
Deep Breaths:
While you likely worry about your family and children all day, remember to breathe. Parents often meet everyone else’s needs and run themselves into the ground. Try and breathe and take just a few minutes to yourself each day. You deserve a pat on the back for surviving such an unprecedented time as a parent. Your attitude will set the tone for your family. So focus on taking care of your needs as well.
Allergy Specialist NYC
If your child suffers from allergies or asthma and you are concerned about their health this winter, contact Dr. Shukla at the Asthma & Sleep Institute. He has over fifteen years of experience in addressing pulmonary and respiratory issues in children. He is a skilled allergy specialist NYC that can provide your child with comprehensive pulmonary care to ensure they are equipped to stay healthy this winter. Contact Dr. Shukla and his team for an appointment!
