Raising Children of Color in America

May 11, 2020

Parenting is a joyful experience, but no one can deny its challenges. As well, non-white families often face different challenges from their caucasian counterparts. Whether Muslim, African-American, Hispanic or another race or creed, families often experience racism in their lives, sometimes overt and sometimes subtle or nuanced. As parents, we all want to spare our kids the negative experiences we have endured, but that is not always within our control in the real world.

To provide some insight into the experiences of some Toledo parents raising children of color, three mothers shared their own experiences with race and in America.

THE ABDE FAMILY

Angela Abde is the mother of 3 boys, aged 18, 12 and 7, who are of Lebanese and Mexican descent.

Do you feel racism still exists in modern-day America?
Today’s racism is apparent in social media posts and comments made by our president. It is subject to the crisis we as Americans seem to be having at the moment.

Do you recall the first time you experienced racism?
When I was a teenager, my older sister and I went on a road trip out of state. We had stopped at a diner, where the service was abrupt and bordered on rude and, as we were leaving, the waitress threw away the dishes and utensils we used right in front of us.

When was the first time your child experienced racism?
At the age of 7, my oldest son was nicknamed “white boy” by his Mexican friends. My boys have been teased about having mixed-raced parentage, but they have never been excluded for it. Within their groups of friends, they’ve experienced more curiosity than prejudice.

What was your response?
I had to define racism to my boys at an early age as a result of the teasing they incurred from friends. I help them to understand that they are American, but if someone wants to know their ethnicity, they should answer honestly.

In your opinion, how is growing up in America as a child of color different?
My family is 3rd generation American, and so I never felt different or excluded. I think our government is trying to make it possible for people of color to achieve the same level of education and privilege as white people. While America is not perfect, and some pockets are more progressive than others, as a nation we are taking steps to be more inclusive.

If you could give advice to parents out there, what would it be?
Take your children to all the different cultural festivals that your community has to offer. Help your children make friends, ask questions, and experience the food, music and traditions of different cultures. The more you understand, the easier it is to accept our differences.

What is your favorite part about raising a family in Toledo?
The festivities that unite us as a community, such as Greek Fest, German Fest and Gay Pride, to name a few. We have a world class Museum and Zoo, and Toledo also has its own hockey and baseball teams. Toledo is big enough to be called a city, but still small enough to be comfortable.

THE MAJUMDER FAMILY

Dina, who was born and raised in Bangladesh, now resides in Old Orchard with her husband, Shuman, and their two boys (4 and 7).

Do you feel racism still exists in modern-day America? Why or why not?
Absolutely. In times of crisis, in particular, others are quick to blame immigrants and foreigners for any problems that may arise. Muslims in particular are targeted because of the way the media depicts them. Only a handful of Muslims are “terrorists,” but the country perceives it differently.

How did you explain race to your kids and at what age?
My boys are 4 and 7. My older son has asked questions about skin color and different religions. I try to explain things to him as clearly as possible, but mostly emphasize that human beings are all essentially the same regardless of appearance and belief systems.

Do you recall the first time you experienced racism?
Growing up in different countries and attending international schools, I was not aware of being different because I was always surrounded by a wide variety of people. When I first came to the US to study, people commented on how well I spoke English. That struck me as being racist. More recently, I was told to go back to my country by an opthamologist in Toledo, which was a humiliating experience.

When was the first time your child experienced racism? What was your response?
I don’t think they have experienced racism directly. My oldest was referred to as “that black boy” by one of the neighbor’s children, but I don’t think it was meant in a derogatory way.

In your opinion, how is growing up in America as a child of color different?
I think we have to try harder to be seen in the same light. I want my children to embrace and be proud of their differences while still believing themselves to be American, and deserving of all the same rights and benefits as their peers.

If you could give advice to parents out there, what would it be?
It’s important to be honest with your children and prepare them for whatever they may encounter. I will keep explaining the history of this country and our place in it as they get older and have more questions.

What is your favorite part about raising a family in Toledo?
It has the feel of a small town in some neighborhoods, with families riding their bikes down the street and waving at their friends. There is also a wonderful metropark system in Toledo.

THE BEDWELL FAMILY

Emily Bedwell and Mike Deetsch with their children, Ethan and Cassady. Photo taken by Heather Meyer as part of the “Porch Project.”

Emily Bedwell and her husband are the white adoptive parents of two siblings Ethan, 8, who is biracial (white and black) and Cass, 4, who is white.

Do you feel racism still exists in modern-day America? Why or why not?
I think it does, but it is often more subtle. People may not realize they are making racist assumptions. Raising a son who is biracial, and who will ultimately be at least 6 foot 4 inches, I am especially conscious of these assumptions and how he will be perceived as he grows older.

It is also structural. For example, with the Covid-19 crisis that we are facing, the systemic challenges facing people of color are more apparent. These communities have less access to healthcare, and they are more often in jobs that have been deemed essential but expose them to the virus. Also because of structural racism and lack of generational wealth, people of color are more often in multi-family residences, where staying away from each other is hard.

How did you explain race/racism to them and at what age?
When my son was 4, we read a book about Jackie Robinson and it talked about Jim Crow laws and how African-Americans were treated. He was very confused, so my husband and I had to first explain to him that his skin color was different and then try to explain how people of color were treated.

When was the first time your child experienced racism?
When Ethan was 2 and we still lived in Kentucky, another child said, “Look at that kid – he’s brown!” as though he’d never seen a colored person before…maybe because he hadn’t.

In your opinion, how is growing up in America as a child of color different?
I worry about taking away his innocence because I will have to talk to him about how the world will see him. We have always talked about racism as being in the past, and at some point that will change. I feel that right now my whiteness protects him in terms of how the world treats him.

If you could give advice to parents out there, what would it be?
One thing is to make sure your child knows that they are beautiful no matter their skin color. Don’t be “colorblind.” It is okay to see color, because the world will, and they have a rich heritage associated with that skin color. I think white people are uncomfortable talking about race and color, but we have to especially in interracial families. It is important to notice our differences and embrace them.

FAMILY FRIENDLY RECIPES

Digital Media

May 8, 2020

Does it feel like you have been in an endless cycle of cooking since quarantine started? Are you struggling to come up with tasty dishes that your children will actually eat and enjoy? Toledo Parent consulted the experts and rounded up some delicious, healthy and quick meals that the whole family can enjoy!

Pad Thai

Contributed by Sarah Womack of Old Orchard, mother of Raegar and Rowan, who are developing their palate for world cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the sauce:

⅓ cup chicken or vegetable stock
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp fish sauce (sub: more soy sauce or omit)
3 Tbsp brown sugar
3 Tbsp natural style peanut butter
1 Tbsp lime juice
1 Tbsp rice wine vinegar (sub: white vinegar or more lime juice)
1 tsp chili sauce (omit if spice is not tolerated)
1 tsp minced or grated fresh ginger, or ½ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp minced garlic

For the pad thai:

4 oz. rice noodles, cooked according to package directions
1 tsp oil
1 large egg, beaten
1 chicken breast cubed (optional)
½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined and cut in half (optional)
½ cup bean sprouts

For the garnish:

Chopped cilantro
Chopped peanuts
Lime wedges
Sriracha, or thai chili sauce

Instructions:

Whisk together sauce ingredients and set aside
Cook noodles according to package direction. Rine and set aside in a colander
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add oil. Add chicken breast, if using, and cook until brown and almost cooked through
Push the chicken to one side, pour in the egg, and scramble using a spatula
Add the shrimp, if using, and cook for another minute
Add the noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over the noodles
Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring until the sauce starts to thicken
Add the bean sprouts and remove from heat
Top with desired toppings and serve
ENJOY!

Cacio e Pepe

Contributed by Elicia Eddy of Lambersville, mother of 4 and amateur chef extraordinaire!

Ingredients:

Kosher salt
I Tbsp chicken bouillon
6 oz pasta (I prefer bucatini)
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp fresh garlic, minced
2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: lemon juice, or white wine
½ – 1 cup grated parmesan
½ – 1 cup grated pecorino romano

Instructions:

Bring a large pot of water to boil with the chicken bouillon
Add pasta and cook according to packet directions until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of the pasta water
In a separate large skillet, saute the garlic in EVOO and add the cracked pepper
Add the cooked pasta and the pasta water to the pan
Reduce the heat and add the parmesan
Add a bit of salt and a squeeze of lemon or splash of white wine, if using
Take the pan off the heat and add the pecorino romano, stirring and tossing until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the pasta
If the sauce seems a bit dry, add another splash of pasta water
Voila! The best and easiest meal you’ve ever eaten

*Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp

Lemon Couscous with Sweet Potato and Kale

Contributed by Amanda Vail Lute, mother of Rory, Oliver and Theo, TPS teacher and meal swap star of Old Orchard.

Ingredients:

2 medium-large sweet potatoes, chopped
Olive oil
Sea salt
1 large bunch kale, torn or chopped
2 cups uncooked Israeli couscous
2 cups vegetable stock (plus extra for steaming kale, if desired)
1 Tbsp cumin
2 ½ Tbsp lemon juice, plus zest
1 Tbsp dried parsley

Instructions:

Preheat the oven at 350 degrees
Spread the diced potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, and bake for about 15 minutes (or until tender and starting to brown)
Saute the kale in a pan with water or vegetable broth until tender
Heat a large pot over medium heat, and add 1-2 Tbsp olive oil
Once heated, add the couscous and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring often
Add 2 cups vegetable broth to the couscous, reduce heat to low, and cover
Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes without lifting the lid! Then stir and make sure the liquid is gone and the balls aren’t clumping
Add the spices, kale and potatoes into the couscous and mix
Flavor with salt & pepper, and serve!

Baking Powder Biscuits

Contributed by DIY queen Aubry Hall, mother of 2, and Imagination Station bigwig.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
4 tsp baking powder
1 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
¾ tsp cream of tartar
¾ cup unsalted butter
1 cup milk

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 450 degrees
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and cream of tartar
Using a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs
Make a well in the center of the mixture, pour in the milk, and stir with a fork just until moistened
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by folding and pressing until the dough comes together
Pat into ¾ in rectangular slab and cut out biscuits with round cutter
Place on an ungreased baking sheet 1-in apart
Bake for 10-12 minutes
Enjoy with jam, gravy or any way you like!

Tomato Dal (Lentil with tomatoes)

Contributed by Dina Sobhan, mother of 2 picky eaters. This recipe is an everyday Bengali staple, found in every household in the country.

Ingredients:

1 cup red lentils
¼ tsp turmeric powder
¼ tsp cayenne powder
2 Tbsp chopped coriander/cilantro leaves
2 green chilies, pared
2 tsp crushed garlic
1 Tbsp sliced onion
1 Tbsp cooking oil
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
Salt

Instructions:

Wash lentils in running water until water runs clear
Simmer lentils, turmeric, cayenne and salt in 4 cups of water for 40 minutes
Skim any foam that floats on the surface with a slotted spoon
Add tomatoes and cook until softened
Add coriander leaves and green chilies and bring to a boil
Remove from heat
In a separate skillet, heat the oil and fry the onion and garlic until golden brown Pour into the lentils and stir
Serve with rice and/or naan bread

Pediatric Anxiety/Depression Amidst the Coronavirus

Digital Media

May 7, 2020

An interview with Carrie Baker, CPNP

With school canceled and children learning from home, children’s lives have changed suddenly and drastically. With so many fears regarding the coronavirus, children with anxiety/depression may find themselves having difficulty coping, or children not previously diagnosed may be acting noticeably different.

Your child is not alone. As of 2019, there are more than 6 million children (ages 3-17) in the United States who struggle with anxiety/depression. With the current pandemic, it is important that parents are able to recognize the signs and symptoms of anxiety/depression and are able to help their child move forward.

Carrie Baker, CPNP of Maumee Bay Pediatrics, an affiliate of The Toledo Clinic, specializes in pediatric anxiety and depression. With over a decade of experience, she has the most current, science-based knowledge to help parents during this difficult time.

What are some signs or symptoms of anxiety/depression disorders in children?

Children do experience different symptoms [of depression compared to adults] depending on their developmental age, and the situation with the coronavirus may bring these symptoms to surface more now than ever.

Ages 5-8: Symptoms often manifest as sleep issues, including refusing to sleep, nightmares, and frequent night-waking. Children in this age group will often display unrealistic fear as well, often based around the fear of something happening to their parents.

Ages 9-12: Anxiety/depression may present itself as separation anxiety within this age group. The child may react very negatively to being separated from a parent or significant caretaker and may cling to parents excessively. Parents may notice their child is less willing to branch out and try new things. Instead, they may try to stick with what is familiar.

Ages 13+: It is within this age group that anxiety/depression begins to have similar symptoms as adult anxiety/depression. Now that the child is more cognitively developed, they are able to express worry and concern. Parents may notice their child isolating themselves in their room or keeping to themselves, as well as displaying sadness.

Children may also have physical symptoms associated with their anxiety/depression, including frequent headaches, nausea, stomach aches, and/or trouble breathing.

If parents suspect their child is displaying symptoms of anxiety or depression, what is the best way to talk about it with them?

There are two very important parts to this, and the first is to listen. Being present and allowing the child to express their feelings in a safe place is critical. The next part is the response. Respond with compassion. Reassure and support them by letting them know that you are there to protect them.

Do not ridicule or judge the child for what they are going through, and do not convince them that their concerns and emotions are irrational. Feelings are not right or wrong. Children tend to shut down when they do not feel safe talking about and/or expressing their feelings, which would not improve the situation.

Parents should also make sure that any other significant caretakers or parental figures in the child’s life respond in the same manner. Many children speak openly about their feelings with people they trust. Having a consistent support system will build trust and a feeling of safety for the child.

Should parents involve their primary care provider?

Yes. If parents have concerns, then a professional should be involved. Anxiety and depression are not just “in your head;” it is a chemical imbalance in the brain, which requires a proper diagnosis. A trained professional should educate parents on what is really happening with their child so that a well-informed decision can be made when moving forward with a plan for treatment. I strongly recommend seeing someone who specializes in mental health issues so that they can provide the best education and plan moving forward. Once the issue is identified, it’s not fixed overnight. It takes a lot of work and patience from both the child and the parents.

Other mental health issues can mimic anxiety/depression, including ADD and ADHD. This is something only a trained medical professional can accurately diagnose. Seeing a professional will get the child the help they need before things get worse.

With the coronavirus keeping people indoors, should parents wait to schedule an appointment?

No. It is imperative now more than ever to get children struggling with anxiety/depression the help they need. The implications of anxiety/depression are bad enough without the added stress and fear of a national pandemic. A child’s symptoms may be exacerbated in this situation.

For parents wondering if it’s safe to go to their primary care provider’s office, the answer is likely yes. Doctors’ offices are safer than most public places. Health providers understand how to keep their facilities safe and properly sanitized, all while using PPE appropriately.

If your primary care office is not open, Maumee Bay Pediatrics can provide care to any child, regardless if they are a regular patient or not. We will happily send any notes to the child’s regular primary care provider once they reopen.

Does anxiety/depression have an effect on other components of a child’s health, both mental and physical?

Anxiety/depression absolutely has an effect on physical health. Oftentimes it is through sleep, whether it is too much or too little. Unhealthy sleep habits inhibit a child’s ability to focus on tasks and be productive. Sleep can also affect the immune system, which can potentially open up the possibility of countless other physical ailments.

Additional mental health issues can certainly be happening in conjunction with anxiety/depression, and ultimately if left untreated, children can run the risk of becoming suicidal. Again, these issues are serious and require a trained medical professional to appropriately diagnose. Children deserve to get the help they need, and parents really need to make the first move in seeing a specialist.

Should parents be careful about what information they allow their children to hear about the coronavirus?

There is a lot of information out there, and some of it has the potential to evoke fear, anxiety, stress, etcetera. Children who are at different cognitive stages will react differently to this information, so it’s best to monitor the information they are listening to based on their cognitive maturity.

The situation with the coronavirus has the potential to increase the speed of development for clinical anxiety/depression in some children, so parents may want to consider limiting their information sources, such as TV, social media, etc. If you are unsure of what information your child can handle, speak with your primary care provider.

To learn more and access more health information resources, visit ToledoClinic.com.

To learn more about Carrie, Dr. Wexler or the team at Maumee Bay Pediatrics, visit MaumeeBayPediatrics.com.

The Origin Story of a Local HER-o

Phoebe Samuel Rapp

May 6, 2020

Nicole holding Francis with Lexi. Photo by Jamie Ward Photography

Visionary mom shares her odyssey

Toledo mom, Lexi Hayman-Staples, is busy making Toledo even more awesome. Toledo’s art and LGBTQIA+ community knows that without Hayman-Staples, there might not be a thriving art center, and there certainly would not be a robust Toledo Pride celebration. Lexi is the Artistic Director for the Collingwood Art Center and the Toledo Pride founder/organizer. She also works and designs for local gem, Harold Jaffe Jewelers.

Lexi was born in Sandusky, Ohio before her family moved to the Old West End in the heart of Toledo. Around fourth grade, Lexi found her family uprooted once more to Bedford, Michigan. She shares, “Toledo always felt like home.” As an adult, she was eager to return to Toledo.

Creative souls do wander

Nicole with Francis at the TMA. Photo by Lexi Hayman Staples

A passion for creating art drove Lexi in many directions — studying art in college, working as a tattoo artist — but she was unable to settle on one career. With a deep desire to sink roots, Lexi partnered with her mother, Johanna Staples, to open Outskirts bar in 2008.

Not long after, Lexi found herself wondering what her next big venture might be, and a longing to see Toledo celebrate its own pride parade stirred the visionary to action. With $500 from her mother, another $400 from an anonymous donor, and some craft store implements, Lexi and her dusty school art supplies went to work.

August of 2009 marked the first-ever Toledo Pride Parade, which was held at the Erie Street Market. Lexi recalls how she used poster boards and markers for the decor and colorful plastic table cloths for the backdrop. Optimistically expecting 1000 attendees, she was thrilled that 2500 showed up. Last year in 2019, over 20,000 Toledo Pride participants gathered to celebrate community, inclusion, and love.

The makings of a family

After Lexi met Nicole Hayman in 2007, she realized she wanted to expand her life and family. With Toledo Pride’s success, paired with great progress at the Collingwood Art Center, Lexi found herself ready to make her life with Nicole “official.” Taking her original engagement ring design into Harold Jaffe Jewelers, she made an unshakable impression upon the owners, and before long, they had hired her for sales and design. With the security of a great career and new possibilities glimmering on the horizon, the couple was married on January 16, 2016.

Personal baby fever

Fancis June. Photo by Lexi Hayman-Staples

A little under three years ago, some friends stopped by Harold Jaffe Jeweler’s with their new baby. Lexi describes the moment she held her friends’ baby as “personal baby fever.” She expounds, “As I held their little baby, I thought for the first time that maybe I can have a baby.” With Nicole pursuing her nursing career, the couple concluded that Lexi would carry their baby. Nine months later, they welcomed their baby boy, Francis June Hayman-Staples.

No really, it takes a village

Nicole works long hours at the Toledo Hospital Cardiovascular intensive care unit and has a second career as a hairstylist, while Lexi works at Harold Jaffe Jewelers plus the Collingwood Arts Center. Lexi explains that with the help of aunties, friends, and the indispensable grandma (Johanna Staples), they are able to manage careers and a happy home life.

Busy as she may be, Lexi confides that her heart is at home. She and Nicole cherish the joys of parenthood, like watching their son antagonize Google Home until it plays his favorites. With “Old Town Road” or “Havana” pumping through the speakers, little Francis leads the dance party with three cats and a dog in the mix. Nicole shares, “My absolute favorite thing about being a mom is watching him grow, learn and experience new things.” She discloses, “I never thought I would understand the amount of love you can have for a child…it’s confusing and almost too much.”

With all the extra time at home these days, the family enjoys cooking creative vegan meals, Facetiming with friends and family, and all kinds of art projects. Lexi concludes, “Nicole and I have wanted to be parents for a long time. We are both so incredibly happy to have a great family and are enjoying it every step of the way!”

Quick Quips:

Most valuable life lesson:
Value relationships and always try to respect others, especially when you don’t agree with them.

Words to live by:
Be nice.

Proudest accomplishment:
Toledo Pride (my original baby) and Francis June (my other baby).

Who’s your mentor?
Too many to list. I am constantly inspired by someone new and I love to learn. Also, my Dad was amazing, so that’s an easy pick if I had to pick.

Most-used social media app:
Facebook with Instagram as a close second.

Inspiration comes from:
Art, nature, family, and friends

Best advice ever:
“If you’re not getting happier as you get older, then your [messing] up.”

Worst advice:
Don’t worry, it’ll all work itself out. Hard disagree…I love to worry.

What lesson do you wish you had learned sooner?
Math is hard and you will have a calculator in your pocket.

FAMILY FAVORITES: Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Erin Schoen Marsh

May 5, 2020

Here are some of our favorite things — great ideas for Mother’s Day gifts!

The Perfect Purse

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day, look no further. Every mom knows the struggle of finding the perfect purse; it must be cute while also utilitarian, and anjie & ash deliver with their crossbody parent bag. The crossbody feature allows parents to have both hands free, and thoughtful features like exterior beverage cup holders and multiple interior pockets make this the ideal gift for any mama out there. Anjieandash.com

Massage & Fascia Release Tools

Whether you’re missing your regular massages or your body is tight with stress, you need some of these RAD Roller Fascia Release tools. A fan favorite, the Helix’s ergonomic design with ridged, indented shape helps protect your spine while working out back muscles (and can also be used on other parts of the body). If your hips need some TLC, try the RAD Recovery Rounds. Roll slowly and steadily or pin and hold to help alleviate tension and promote the loosening of tight fascia. Another great idea for Mother’s Day, these massage tools are sold locally (pickup and delivery available) at The Yogaja Shop.

Tea Gift Box

Is the mother in your life a tea lover? We have the perfect gift box: an assortment of Jaf Tea. Jaf teas are known for their exceptional flavors, freshness and quality and are sourced and packed in Ceylon. While not local, these teas are ethically produced to support local communities. Available on Amazon. Jaftea.com

For the Chef in the Fam

Maybe you love cooking or maybe you’re forced to slave away in the kitchen more than usual thanks to COVID-19. Either way, the Fab Slab is a must-have for the chef in the family. These “naturally and permanently antibacterial” cutting boards and grazing platters are made in Australia from one single slab of wood. They look and smell wonderful and are less porous than their plastic counterparts (and better for the environment!). Sold at Lowe’s, Macy’s and Amazon. fabslabsusa.com

A Yoga Membership

Moms need some “me” time, and now that parents have taken on the role of educator due to school closings, moms need relaxation time more than ever. Local yoga studios like Open Arms Wellness Center (Oregon), Toledo Yoga (Ottawa Hills), and Yogaja Yoga (West Toledo) are providing virtual classes, both live and prerecorded, until it is safe to return to the studio. Additionally, Open Arms is offering curbside pickup for Mother’s Day gift cards, and Yogaja Shop has yoga accessories and clothes available for delivery.

The Coronavirus and Children: What Should Parents Do?

Digital Media

May 4, 2020

With stay-at-home orders in place and families self-quarantining in their homes, many parents are faced with questions on how to properly communicate the severity of the coronavirus with their children, as well as what safety precautions to follow.

Carrie Baker, CPNP, of Maumee Bay Pediatrics (MBP), an affiliate of The Toledo Clinic, shared her best practices and advice.

What is a good way to explain the coronavirus to children?

Even during this pandemic, it is important to stick to the basics. Before answering their questions or bringing the subject up yourself, reflect on the conversational environment you are creating and follow these steps:

Be calm. If parental figures come off as nervous, afraid, panicked, etcetera, then children will sense it. Kids are smart and can very easily sense emotion and tension. The tone of the conversation is crucial, and children may not feel safe to discuss their feelings with their parents if the tone is not conducive for open conversation.
Be honest. Similar to how children can sense emotion, they can also sense whether they are being told the truth or not. It’s important that you are being open and honest with them.
Be available and listen. Kids need an outlet! They need to be heard. Let them ask questions and feel comfortable talking to you. In many instances, by simply being available and listening to their worries, their fears may already be calmed before their questions are even answered.

As far as what to say, parents whose children do not have any underlying conditions should reassure their children that this virus is not life-threatening to them. However, children are very likely to spread coronavirus to those who are more at risk but are not likely to face symptoms that are more severe than a cold or mild flu.

If your child has an underlying health condition that puts them at a greater risk, it’s still important to follow the steps listed above, while reassuring them that you will keep them safe.

In any case, you should be aware of what information your child can handle. Children of younger ages may find it harder to process some information because they are not cognitively able to do so. If you are unsure of what information your child can handle, speak with your primary care provider.

What precautions should parents follow when taking their children to necessary public spaces?

Following social distancing and hand hygiene is key. Avoid coming within six feet of people who may be nearby. Wash and sanitize your children’s hands, especially before and after activity. Getting outside for some physical activity is still a great idea when these steps can be followed.

Many people wonder if their children should be wearing gloves and masks. These tools are only effective if strict PPE guidelines are followed, and children are not likely to do this. It’s hard for children to not touch a mask when wearing one. Touching your mask with potentially dirty hands defeats the purpose of wearing it.

Gloves are only meant to be worn if they are discarded immediately after contact. The general public, not just children, are advised to not wear gloves. Frequent hand washing and sanitizing will likely be more effective due to our habits of touching multiple surfaces and objects.

If you have a child with underlying conditions, your child should be staying home.

Are children less susceptible to COVID-19?

Studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) show that 90% of affected children will experience mild to moderate symptoms. Mild symptoms consist of a cough and/or runny nose. Moderate symptoms include flu-like symptoms. They are very unlikely to be subject to anything severe. It’s very important to understand that children spreading the virus is a greater concern than children becoming sick from it.

Again, follow social distancing and good hand hygiene. Use hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) frequently. Cough and sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and immediately wash your hands. Remind children not to go around people who are sick and sneezing. These are good practices for children to follow during all cold and flu seasons.

With doctors’ offices closed to appointments, how can parents make sure their children are up to date on vaccines?

If your primary care office is open, it is very important to continue going for regular checkups, appointments, and vaccinations. Doctors’ offices are safer than most public places. Health providers understand how to keep their facilities safe and properly sanitized. Going to doctors’ offices is an important step in building a child’s immune system. Putting your child’s regular checkups on hold is not a good idea, and it’s especially important to continue going to the doctor if a new concern develops.

If your primary care office is not open, Maumee Bay Pediatrics can provide care to any child, regardless if they are a regular patient or not. We will happily send any notes to their regular office once they reopen.

The Toledo Clinic’s Maumee Bay Pediatrics office is also working with the Toledo Health Department to provide vaccines while services like Shots 4 Tots are unavailable.

For parents who are healthcare and/or essential workers, what tips should they follow to keep their families safe?

Healthcare workers who are coming in direct contact with coronavirus patients certainly should be more careful when coming home and living with others, but there is less to worry about with essential workers who are not 100% coming into direct contact with infected individuals.

If you are coming into contact with people that are confirmed to be infected:

When at work, follow all appropriate PPE guidelines.
When returning home, (if possible) take off any clothing in a garage, immediately shower and wash your potentially contaminated clothes.
Practice social distancing.
Practice good hand hygiene.
Wear a mask if you display any symptoms or are sick.

If you are not coming into contact with people who are not confirmed to be infected:

When at work, follow your place of employment’s policy on PPE.
Immediately wash hands when coming home from work.
Practice social distancing if possible.

To learn more and access more health information resources, visit ToledoClinic.com.

To learn more about Carrie, Dr. Wexler or the team at Maumee Bay Pediatrics, visit MaumeeBayPediatrics.com.

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