Recommendation: Masking in Group Settings

Cases of respiratory illness remain high within Snohomish County and Washington State. Clinics, urgent cares, emergency rooms and hospitals remain overwhelmed. 

For this reason, Snohomish County Health Department continues to recommend masking for staff and children over 2 years old in public and group settings.

Our Health Officer Dr. James Lewis joined more than 30 other local health officers and health care leaders to recommend masking and other illness prevention measures this winter. 
 
“Communities across our state and around the U.S. are experiencing an unprecedented surge in viral respiratory illnesses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and COVID-19. As health officers and health care leaders working to improve the health of Washington residents, we recommend that everyone wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when around others in indoor spaces to protect against both acquiring and spreading these infections to others." 

See the full media release for the full list of those endorsing this statement.

If you have any questions about this guidance, please reach out to the Child Care Health Outreach Program at SHD.ChildCareHealth@co.snohomish.wa.us.

Supporting Children’s Mental Health

It is usually easy to identify a child’s physical needs, such as a nutritious diet, warm clothing, and plenty of rest. However, it is not always as easy to identify their emotional needs. Supporting children’s mental health allows them to learn new skills, think clearly, and develop socially. Helping children develop high self-esteem, self-confidence, and a healthy emotional outlook on life sets them up for success as they learn and grow.

A child’s physical and mental health are equally important building blocks to helping them reach their greatest potential.

Necessities for good physical health include:

• A nutritious, well-rounded diet
• Adequate sleep
• Physical activity and exercise
• Immunizations
• A safe, healthy living environment

• Unconditional love
• Self-confidence
• High self-esteem
• Encouraging teachers
• Supportive caregivers
• Opportunities to play
• Safe and secure environment
• Appropriate guidance and discipline

 
Children need to know that receiving love does not depend on their accomplishments. Mistakes are an important part of learning and growing, and they should be accepted. Children need praise and encouragement as they try new things. Positive attention and acknowledgment of their efforts help build their self-esteem. Setting realistic goals that align with children’s interests and abilities will promote healthy development and self-confidence. Practice honesty with children and avoid hiding failures or mistakes, it is a reassuring reminder that nobody is perfect, and we all make mistakes. If a child is struggling, provide encouragement and give them space to talk about their feelings. Provide support to children as they strive to do their best while practicing patience and keeping in mind that growth is a process.

Z is for Zzzzz (Healthy Sleep Habits)

Good sleep habits can be just as important as things like diet and exercise when it comes to keeping kids healthy and reducing the chances of long-term problems. During the years when kids’ bodies are growing and changing, it’s especially important that they get enough rest. This is also the time to build positive habits that they will hopefully continue throughout their lives.

More reading: Z is for Zzzzz (Healthy Sleep Habits)