This past weekend marked our family’s first experience with a COVID scare. I recognize how fortunate we’ve been! Last year, my children were engaged in remote learning and remained largely isolated. However, this year they returned to in-person classes, and when my teenager complained of a sore throat on Saturday, I realized I had to navigate the process of testing for COVID, informing their school, and potentially managing an isolation period.
Despite being fully vaccinated and having no known exposure, I was incredibly anxious. Fortunately, an at-home test yielded a negative result, and a follow-up test at urgent care the next day confirmed the same. What a relief! However, this experience reminded me that while I had discussed safety protocols with my kids—such as keeping their masks on—I hadn’t prepared them for what would happen if they were exposed to COVID or tested positive and needed to quarantine.
Even in a school district with robust COVID protocols, the likelihood of exposure is real. As I processed this situation, I began to consider how to mentally prepare my children and maintain some semblance of normalcy at home if they had to isolate. Here are some insights, along with expert advice.
Familiarize Yourself with School COVID Protocols
As soon as the possibility of my son having contracted COVID arose, I began to wonder how it would affect the rest of our family. My younger, unvaccinated son would also be considered exposed. I needed to know how many days they would need to isolate, especially considering their vaccination status and the possibility of testing out of quarantine.
I found the COVID exposure and isolation guidelines for our school district online, but it was a good reminder to review them. I recommend you locate your district’s protocols and familiarize yourself with them. It’s essential to have this information ready during a crisis.
Explain COVID Quarantine and Exposure Procedures Clearly
Children can understand the basics of exposure, testing, and isolation. It’s best to communicate the rules straightforwardly without inserting personal opinions about their fairness. Dr. Laura Bennett, a pediatric expert, suggests asking your child what they already know about these protocols, as they may have misconceptions that you can clarify.
Allow Your Child to Experience Their Emotions
If your child is exposed to COVID or shows symptoms, they might experience a whirlwind of emotions. It’s crucial to reassure them that these feelings are normal and that many kids are in the same boat. Dr. Amelia Johnson, a child psychologist, emphasizes that children will react differently; some may feel anxious, while others might feel angry or even relieved to avoid school. Create a supportive environment where they can express their feelings openly.
Develop an Isolation Plan
When contemplating the potential need to isolate one or both of my kids for ten days, I realized I hadn’t fully considered a plan. Dr. Sam Roberts advises that if possible, an isolated child should stay with a vaccinated family member. Testing should be done around five days post-exposure, and it’s essential to limit contact with the rest of the family until a negative test result is obtained or the quarantine period concludes.
If you have a vaccinated child, they may be able to test out of quarantine, but it’s crucial to confirm with your district. As a work-from-home parent, I would usually be available to support my child during this time. However, for families with both parents working or single-parent households, coordination can be challenging. It’s wise to discuss potential support with friends and family proactively.
Reassure Your Child That They Are Not at Fault
Kids often blame themselves or others when exposed to COVID. Dr. Bennett cautions against language that might create stigma. Reassure them that these situations are common and no one is at fault; it’s simply a part of life in this pandemic.
Be Aware of Signs of Mental Health Issues
These times are challenging for children—navigating school closures, potential COVID exposures, and fears about illness can weigh heavily on them. While many kids cope without lasting effects, some may struggle more profoundly. Look for signs of distress, such as persistent meltdowns, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, clinginess, or reluctance to attend school.
I hope my children can avoid a COVID exposure, but realistically, it’s a possibility we need to prepare for. Thinking through these scenarios has helped me understand what to expect and how to support my kids and myself.
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In summary, being prepared for potential COVID exposure at school involves understanding school protocols, communicating clearly with your children, and having a solid plan in place. Creating a supportive environment for your child to express their feelings is key, alongside being vigilant for any signs of mental health struggles.