Things to Remember this Covid-Flu-Winter Season during Extracurricular Activities
As we approach the next few weeks, we wanted to share some tips for preventing the spread of germs during these harsh winter months. At ADC, we understand the importance of extracurricular activities and the role they play in the life of a child. By following these helpful tips and advice, you can help us ensure that we maintain a safe environment for our students, staff, and families of ADC.
Below is list of advice from one of our dance moms and school nurse, Miranda Kuykendall. We hope you’ll share this with your child as they come to dance this winter:
Wash your hands upon arrival at the studio and before leaving. This ensures you do not bring any unnecessary germs from the outside in and then you wash all of your germs off before entering into your vehicle. Effective handwashing is a full 20 seconds (or sing your ABCs). I tell my kids to wash to their elbows. Your wrists collect soooo many germs…yuck!
Wash your hands during breaks, especially if you are going to be eating a snack. NEVER eat without washing your hands!
Do NOT share food, phones, phone chargers, accessories, dance items, etc. Sharing any items with others increases your risk of contracting unnecessary germs.
Bring your own water bottle. Make sure that you are washing these after each use. Throw away plastic water bottles after each practice. This is a great place for germs to harbor.
Wear your masks appropriately. If your mask under your nose, it is not in the correct spot. If you need to take a “mask break” make sure that you are at least 6 feet away from everyone.
Unless you are dancing in a group dance, keep your distance from each other. 6 feet is recommended but not always possible. Put as much distance between you and your friends as possible. Do not touch each other for any reason!!!!!
Do NOT touch your face. If you need to touch your face for any reason, wash your hands first or use a Kleenex.
Help disinfect the ballet barres with Clorox wipes. This should be done before class starts and when class ends, before others enter the room. This includes props as well. A disinfectant spray can be used in place of wipes.
If you are exhibiting ANY symptoms, please stay home. Covid-19 symptoms in children have been as mild as a runny nose or “allergy-like” symptoms. If you have any symptom that is out of the ordinary, please do not come to dance unless you have been seen by a physician. This may seem silly because it is Fall in Arkansas, but most children who are Covid-19 positive have only mild cold symptoms. Fever has not been a staple symptom.
Remember- we are not only trying to keep our immediate family safe but our grandparents, elderly aunts/uncles, immunocompromised (even if they are not aware that they are) loved ones and many many more who are dear to us. Please be mindful of these and speak with your children about these when you allow them to participate in afterschool activities.