COVID-19 Response: The Importance of Social Distancing

Being in close proximity and being together in groups will increase the likelihood of spread. However, given the fact that kids will be home for several weeks, it is important that they stay active, have a routine and socialize in ways that don’t increase the threat of spreading Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) describes social distancing methods as ways to increase physical distance between people in schools and workplaces, at community events and at other places people gather. Examples include:

• Staying home.
• Not shaking hands. Instead, bump fists or elbows.
• Increasing distance between people to 6 feet to help reduce spread.
• Reducing the number of large group gatherings or activities.
• Keeping children and teens from gathering in other public places.

While classes in Denver Public Schools are not being held again until Tuesday, April 7, parents may be wondering how their children can stay active and socialize while staying safe. Here are some recommendations from Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Centers for Disease Control and American Academy of Pediatrics:

• Socializing outdoors is better than indoors.
• Smaller groups are best.
• If you are sick, stay home.
• If you live with someone who is over 60 years old or chronically ill, be extra careful.
• Wash your hands frequently.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings, recommends organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more for the next 8 weeks throughout the United States.

Try to keep children’s days as routine and scheduled as possible. Here are a few tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics that can help:

• Read books with your child. It’s not only fun, but reading together strengthens your bond with your child and helps their development. Instantly access over 30,000 ebooks & audiobooks:

• Make time for active play. Bring out the blocks, balls, jump ropes and buckets and let the creativity go. Play games that kids of all ages can play, like tag or duck-duck-goose. Let your kids make up new games. Encourage older kids to make up a workout or dance to keep them moving.
• Keep an eye on media time. Whenever possible, play video games or go online with your child to keep that time structured and limited. If kids are missing their school friends or other family members, try video chats to stay in touch.