The Covid-19 pandemic has definitely turned our world upside down. Aside from its obvious threat to the health of our loved ones, it also disrupted our lives and impacted our psychological well-being as we were thrust into months of quarantine. Now that more communities and establishments are re-opening, we must all be prepared to enter a life much different from the one we are used to. Learn how to protect your family amidst the so-called “new normal” with these helpful tips, to-dos, and reminders.

Make sure they don’t forget the “rules”

We’re mostly out of quarantine, but that doesn’t mean we can be lax about the safety measures against Covid-19. In fact, we should be extra careful now that most people are going back to work and going about their business like normal. Keep your family safe and healthy by reminding them to continue wearing a mask, practicing proper hygiene and social distancing, and disinfecting their smartphone, wallet, and other high-touch objects and surfaces constantly.

Maintain a clean environment

Proper hygiene and social distancing is futile without ensuring your Suntrust home is a virus-free environment. After arriving home, wash your hands thoroughly and avoid touching anything before you do so; change out of the clothes and shoes you wore outside, and store them in an isolated area or container if washing them immediately isn’t possible; and most importantly, clean and disinfect furniture and high-touch surfaces regularly.

Boost their immune system

Other than following Covid-19 guidelines, help your family boost their body’s natural defenses by feeding them a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients. As much as possible, avoid processed and sugary foods. A healthy lifestyle is instrumental to a strong immune system, so make sure they are also getting enough sleep at night. Children should have 10 to 12 hours of sleep, while adults need at least seven hours for a good night’s rest.

Look after your children’s mental health

As much as we want to believe that children are mostly oblivious to life’s troubles, the fact is they are just as affected by this global pandemic as we are. Because of major changes in their routine and the prolonged confinement at home, your kids may be experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression, which they may not know how to deal with. Here are a few things you can do to help them cope:

Reduce screen time

It’s good to know the facts, but constantly hearing and watching the news about the pandemic can be extremely upsetting for adults and children alike. Be mindful of the information your kids are exposed to when watching TV or browsing the internet.

Maintain a routine

Structure your days by doing something as simple as having your meals and going to bed at the same time everyday. You can also schedule morning walks or other activities that will keep your children occupied and entertained.

Take care of your own mental health

Children tend to mirror what adults around them do, so set an example by managing your own worries and fears. Avoid catastrophizing or panicking in front of your kids and help them think more positively.

Constantly communicate with them

It’s important for children to know that they are heard. Check in with them frequently and listen to what they have to say. Let them know that any feelings they are having are totally valid and normal, and that you are there to protect and support them.

Stay active

Exercise is beneficial to our health in many ways. It helps regulate blood sugar, control weight, and prevent certain conditions such as heart disease and hypertension, which is linked to lower chances of surviving the coronavirus. Aside from that, it also alleviates stress and is a good way to take care of your family’s mental health. Something as simple as going on daily walks with your kids can relax the mind while also spending energy.

In Suntrust communities, you can rest assured that it’s safe to either stay at home or go out and be active with the measures the management is taking to protect residents from Covid-19. Aside from the usual practices of disinfecting common areas and taking people’s temperatures at property entrances, the Suntrust team goes above and beyond to make sure that everyone’s needs are met and they feel taken care of while in isolation.