Keeping Healthy and Safe: Physical Distancing
GR-keeping-physical
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Keeping Healthy and Safe: Physical Distancing
Young children are learning to sit or stand six 6 feet apart from each other, when possible. Adults can support them with simple explanations, visual supports, and practice.
- Provide a Simple Explanation
Use simple phrases, such as: “Germs can hop from person to person, and we don’t want that! When we scoot far apart, we won’t share germs.” - Use Visual Supports
Provide pictures of children having fun but standing far apart. Put tape or stickers on the floor to remind children to keep their distance. - Set Them Up for Success
Mark available seats with colorful tape, carpet squares, or stickers. Allow distance between tables and cots. - Provide Practice and Encouragement
Demonstrate new ways to show affection, such as air high fives, air hugs, silent cheers, and thumbs up.
The opinions, resources, and referrals provided on the IEL Web site are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to take the place of medical or legal advice, or of other appropriate services. We encourage you to seek direct local assistance from a qualified professional if necessary before taking action.
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This resource is a part of a series:
- Keeping Healthy and Safe
About this resource
Setting(s) for which the article is intended:- Child Care Center
- Family Child Care
- Home
- Kindergarten
- Preschool Program
Intended audience(s):
- Parents / Family
- Teachers / Service providers
Age Levels (the age of the children to whom the article applies):
Related IEL Birth to Three Guidelines:
- Developmental Domain 1: Social & Emotional Development
- Developmental Domain 2: Physical Development & Health
- Developmental Domain 3: Language Development, Communication, & Literacy
- Developmental Domain 4: Cognitive Development
- Early Literacy
- Expressive Communication
- Relationship with Adults
- Relationship with Peers
- Safety & Well-Being
- Self-Care
Related Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards:
Reviewed: 2020
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