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.

This resource is a part of a series:

Keeping Healthy and Safe

About this resource

Setting(s) for which the article is intended:

Home
Family Child Care
Child Care Center
Preschool Program
Kindergarten

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:

Related Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards:

Reviewed: 2020

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