Few of us are used to spending so much time around children, much less weeks at a time during such a stressful situation. It’s important that while we are at home we continue to create and maintain healthy habits for our children. Review the following tips below to help you and your kids stay safe while we continue to quarantine.

Maintain a routine for you and your children. Structure makes children feel safe and can help complete tasks like schoolwork and chores. When children are aware of they are expected to do they are more likely to have an easier time completing their work. A daily routine including meal times and bedtimes will also help the transition out of quarantine be a lot smoother.

Take a few minutes a day to make sure your home is free of hazards and sharp objects that could cause harm. Spend extra time in communal areas like your living room and kitchen, where your family might spend more time in. Remind your children that they should never play around heavy furniture, parked cars or with matches and stoves. Make sure all your furniture is securely fastened to avoid having it fall and cause injury.

Involve your children in the decision making. During school days, check in with them at the start of the day to figure out what time they’ll take breaks, how much screen time they’ll be allowed to have, and what activities they’ll want to do after their school work. Make sure to include time for creative activity and exercise, both of which will help reduce stress.

If able to, create time for your children to virtually or telephonically check in with their friends and classmates. Social interactions are an important part of a child’s development and will help when they transition back to school. It’s important to remember that anytime there is a crisis, children can be put at risk for abuse and neglect. For some kids spending time at home can cause additional stress and having the virtual support of a friend can make a difference.

Visit KidSmartz.org for more child safety information, teaching tools, and video resources.

If you know of a child in need of support call the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-767-2445.