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It’s been more than a year since the novel coronavirus came into our lives, and things have been rocky ever since. With governments imposing lockdowns and travel restrictions, life has been challenging and filled with nothing but despair. People lost their jobs, homes, and loved ones with fear and panic all over. Schools and colleges shifted to virtual classes, and children lost the opportunity to hang out with their friends. It was a difficult year for everyone worldwide. Just when things started getting better, India was hit with the second wave of the pandemic, making things worse than they have ever been.
While worry and panic overwhelm the nation, parents cannot help but be concerned about their kids. Even though distance learning is continuing and kids have been staying home, lack of social interaction with the outside world has not been easy. Your kids might be losing their patience being stuck indoors, so we are here to help you. Here are seven tips to protect your kids from the pandemic’s second wave:
1. Wash Your Hands
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Kids tend to be careless and carefree. You might have given them standing instructions to wash their hands before they eat something or after doing just about anything. But it’s up to you to keep an eye on them to ensure that they are doing it.
2. Wear A Mask
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Face masks have become the new normal. But let’s be honest — it’s not the best feeling to wear one. But safety comes first, and you have to make your kids understand that. They would like to roam around freely without a mask but ensure that they always wear one, even if they are walking around the block.
3. Stay Indoors
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It goes without saying that you have to avoid going outdoors as much as possible. But we understand that it might get frustrating for your kids, and they might want to step out, even if it’s just for a bit. Take them with you for a walk around the block but ensure you follow all the guidelines.
4. Be Creative
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Your kids might be driving you crazy because they have to stay indoors. As much as you want to yell at them or discipline them for throwing tantrums, understand that this is all new for them too. Think of creative ways to spend time with them indoors, so they don’t complain of boredom.
5. Be Patient
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We can’t stress this enough! Be patient with your kids. Ensure that they are spending their time indoors with a sound mind. It’s tough to experience a global pandemic when you’re young, and you have to take care of their mental well-being. Don’t lose your cool with them and explain to them that things will get better. The last thing you want is for your kids to lose hope.
6. Avoid Crowds
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Lots of people still don’t understand the seriousness of the pandemic. They continue to host parties, gatherings, and potlucks to keep themselves entertained. As much as we understand that we all need a break, safety comes first. Avoid interacting with crowds as much as possible.
7. Refrain From Entertaining Guests
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Do not allow visitors at home. You might be staying safe and following the protocols laid out by the government, but you don’t know if your guests are. They would have interacted with crowds or skipped wearing masks, making them carriers of the virus. If you’re unsure about the whereabouts of your guests, you shouldn’t allow them to visit you or your kids at home. Because chances are, they’ll bring in an unwanted guest with them too!
The second wave has been dangerously scary and has evoked panic and fear among everyone. The best we can all do right now is to stay home and avoid stepping out completely. Take extra care of your kids and their hygiene practices to protect them from getting infected. We’ll get through this together. But for now, stay home and stay safe!
