A look at the current COVID guidelines for children under 5

The ongoing COVID outbreak has had a profound effect upon our daily lives. While children are not often as severely affected as adults, the risks are still very real. What rules and guidelines have been put in place for children under the age of five? What do parents and educators need to know? Let us take a look at some of the latest updates and how these are related to schools. 

The use of face masks

According to the latest government guidelines, face masks are not required for children below the age of seven. There are still some exceptions to this rule. For instance, a child who has a compromised immune system should be encouraged to wear a face covering. The same holds true if a family member is particularly vulnerable to contracting COVID.

Mixing bubbles

In the past, the government of the United Kingdom recommended not mixing ‘bubbles’ within schools. This was just as relevant for staff members as it applied to children. The main intention was to limit the transmission of a potential illness. However, recent changes state that children under the age of five (and all children for that matter) will no longer be required to adopt mixing bubbles within scholastic settings. 

This is thought to be due to the fact that children are less likely to develop severe symptoms. However, please note that these rules may change depending upon the evolution of COVID as a whole. 

Practical recommendations within classroom settings

Many of the COVID guidelines intended for children under the age of five have not dramatically changed since the onset of the pandemic. Here are some steps which teachers can take in order to ensure higher levels of safety and sanitation:

• Encourage children to wash their hands on a regular basis.
• Practice social distancing measures when applicable.
• Remind students that it is fine to tell a teacher that they feel unwell.
• Ask parents to keep the school informed in the event that a close family member is diagnosed with COVID.

Let us also remember that EYFS tracking software can enable teachers to closely monitor their students within real-time settings. This information may then be used to identify any additional steps that might need to be taken in order to ensure the welfare of children. Feel free to take a closer look at the EYFS tracking here, as you will be provided with a basic overview of the tools and utilities that such systems offer. 

Keeping one step ahead of the curve

Please note that the guidelines and recommendations outlined above were valid at the time that this article was written. Rules may very well change within a short period of time, so make it a point to follow the latest suggestions from local, regional and national authorities. 

While COVID is still having an impact upon our lives, it is hoped that this year will present us with a much brighter future.