COVID-19 cases in kids are mostly in mild form like other viral infections. However, there's a high probability of COVID-19 putting your child in danger. COVID can be life threatening for children with weak immunity, asthma, malnutrition & other comorbid conditions. So here are some tips on how to protect your child during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Health insurance is the best way to keep your kids safe in this pandemic. Here are few tips for practices on daily bases.
Tip # 1: Keep encouraging hygiene
The most important thing you should do during the pandemic is to teach your child how to be hygienic and remain positive. Explain to them in simple terms how the virus works and how it can spread.
- Inculcate good habits such as washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Encourage the use of alcohol-based sanitisers where soap and water are not readily available.
- Remind them often to not touch their eyes, nose, and mouth until they wash their hands first.
- Teach them to use masks whenever they go out. This last one is most important due to how the virus spreads.
- Children learn by example. If they see you following these steps, they will be more likely to do the same.
Tip # 2: Keep lines of communication open
Children are curious and are known to ask many questions ranging from the very silly to the very serious. Don’t be afraid of answering them. The good thing is that they can get satisfied with straightforward factual answers.
Answer questions honestly:
If you do not know the answer to a question, it is okay to reply with an ‘I don’t know’. Your child will appreciate your honesty. It is better to use this time to build up a tolerance to uncertainty as it will help reduce their anxiety and build resilience in the long run.
Avoid TMI (too much information):
At the same time, don’t volunteer too much information as it may become overwhelming for little and not-so-little minds. Invite your child to ask questions about anything they might have heard about the coronavirus.
And remember to be reassuring; try not to emphasise frightening scenarios. Rather, focus on what they can do, such as wearing a mask, to avoid getting sick.
Tip # 3: Keep a steady routine
During the pandemic, schooling has shifted to virtual classes. This means that travel time has been cut down and what better excuse to wake up later?
Maintain the “Early to sleep and early to rise” schedule:
However, wherever possible, try to stick to a steady routine. Avoid allowing your child to sleep late and wake up later. This would help them even when physical school resumes.
Encourage them to maintain a consistent schedule of study and play. Ideally, they should eat and sleep at the same time every day.
Tip # 4: Get creative about exercise and play
Online school and restricted social contact limit your child’s exercise and creative outlets. Try to get around this by incorporating new and creative activities into their routine.
Hands-on Games:
This could mean solving puzzles, word games, learning to cook or bake a new dish together. Encourage your child to get as hands-on as possible.
Inculcate daily exercising:
Go for daily walks or bike rides or learn gentle yoga together. Children often learn by seeing and doing things together.
Tip # 5: Get Coronavirus insurance
As the Covid-19 virus continues to mutate, younger children are proving to be more susceptible to the newer variants such as Omicron. And while we take the necessary precautions, sometimes, unfortunately, even that may not be enough.
Many a time, a Covid-19 infection can lead to long hospital stays and even longer treatment protocols. Most health insurers now offer specific coronavirus health insurance. However, all health insurance plans offer coverage for hospitalisation due to covid-19.
Coronavirus insurance helps to ensure that your child gets the best treatment possible without you needing to worry about how you can pay the medical bills. It covers hospitalisation bills, the cost of masks, gloves, PPE kits, and ventilators. Cashless treatment and add-ons are also available. Home treatment of Covid-19 may be allowed if it is approved by a doctor.
The bottom line
The coronavirus pandemic comes with many restrictions and negatives. But there are certain things you can do to be proactive and positive about your family’s safety. Teach your children about the importance of maintaining hygiene, staying masked, and washing their hands. Keep them occupied, active, and in a positive mindset. Finally, a coronavirus health insurance plan will go a long way in protecting your family and your state of mind.
