Keep kids HEALTHY

Worried about helping your family in the face of the coronavirus pandemic? Here are some tips to stay safe: Good hygiene basics The Ministry of Education recommends you talk to your children about what you can all do to help prevent infection. Wash hands multiple times a day for at least 20 seconds each time (singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” slowly takes about 20 seconds), then thoroughly dry hands. Cover your child’s mouth with a tissue when they sneeze or cough, and throw away the tissue immediately into a WORDS OF WISDOM

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shared this advice on her Facebook page: 1) Wash your hands.

2) If you don’t need to travel overseas, then don’t. Enjoy your own backyard for a time. New Zealanders returning overseas from anywhere except the Pacific Islands need to self-isolate for 14 days.

3) Wash your hands.

4) If you’re sick, stay home.

5) If you sneeze, do it into your elbow.

6) Wash your hands.

7) Stop handshakes, hugs, and hongi – I know this is counter to who we are as a nation, but the best thing we can do right now to show love and affection to one another is to switch to the East Coast wave (raising the eyebrows and head a couple of times while maintaining eye contact). 8) Please be mindful of the older citizens in your life. Check in on them, but if you’re sick, keep your distance. covered bin; or have them sneeze or cough into the bend of their elbow. Do not share food or drinks. Discourage the child from touching their eyes, nose and mouth. Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and exercise regularly to develop a strong immune system for fighting off illness. What does self-isolation mean? The Ministry of Health says people who are self-isolating for the recommended 14-day period cannot use public transport, taxis or Uber. While self-isolating, minimise the time you spend in shared spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens and sitting rooms. Clean regularly and don’t share beds, towels or food. Where to find out more: If you have developed a fever, cough or shortness of breath, phone Healthline’s dedicated COVID-19 number on 0800 358 5453, or contact your GP (but phone ahead of your visit). People who want information on COVID-19 but do not need clinical advice should first access the Ministry of Health website at health.govt.nz. Do not call Healthline for advice on travel or attending events. There is a dedicated government helpline for this advice on 0800 779 997. To connect with a professional counsellor, free call or text 1737.