COVID-19: DO'S AND DON'TS OF WEARING A MASK

Corona virus and the subsequent lock down have wreaked havoc in our lives. People have to wear a mask and adhere to various preventive measures for simple daily chores like going out to buy groceries, medical supplies or even fill fuel in our cars. While wearing a mask is important, there are certain rules that must be followed. The World Health Organization (WHO) has given several guidelines for the rational use of a mask to protect oneself from infection.

The list of Do’s and Don’ts of wearing a mask:

Do’s

•  It is important to clean your hand with soap and water or sanitizer before wearing a mask.
• Cover your nose and mouth with the mask and make sure that there are no gaps between your face and mask.
• Replace the mask as soon as it becomes damp and do not reuse single use masks.
• To remove the mask, remove it from behind, (do not touch the front of the mask) and  discard it immediately in a closed bin and wash your hands with soap and water or  sanitizer.
• You need to wear a mask, if you are taking care of a COVID-19 patient or a sick patient.
•  Masks are most effective when used in combination with soap and water or sanitizer.

Don’ts

•          Do not use ripped or damp mask.
•         Do not wear a mask only over your nose or mouth.
•          Do not use loose fitting mask.
•         Do not touch the front of the mask.
•         Do not remove your mask to talk to someone.
•          Do not leave your mask within the reach of someone.
•          Do not reuse masks.

Point to remember: Masks alone cannot protect you from COVID-19. Maintain at least 1 meter distance from others and wash your hands frequently and thoroughly even while wearing a mask

HOW TO INCULCATE THE HABIT OF READING AMONG CHILDREN DURING LOCK DOWN ?

We have often heard parents complaining about how their children spend most of their free time playing games on smartphones, laptops or gaming consoles. They rarely read a book or a newspaper or do something constructive. Since our nation is locked down due to the COVID-19 and most outdoor activities have stopped, parents can encourage their children to develop the reading habit.

Getting hard copies of books may not be possible due to the lockdown. However, there are plenty of e-books available online in both English and regional languages for free. These books are easily available to parents and children across India. Indian authored e-books such as Amar Chitra Katha and Malgudi Days can truly stimulate young minds from both rural and urban India. Here are a few ways in which you can inculcate the habit of reading in your young one.

Daily reading time

In order to motivate children to read, you can set aside some reading time in their daily routine. In rural areas, parents can encourage their children to visit their nearest Common Service Centers (CSC) to access these e-learning books. Under the Pradhan Mantri Digital Saksharta Abhiyan, Government has empowered the CSCs with e-learning books that can be accessed easily by children. 

Let them pick their favourite book

Parents should guide their children on the choices of books to read. Let your young ones choose their favourite subject so that they don’t get bored of reading. If you enforce your choice of topics on them they are most likely to get disinterested in reading.

One book at a time

Allow your child to read at a pace he or she is comfortable with. It is best not to set targets or pressurize them to finish several books at a go. If you force them to read fast or many books at a stretch then your child may just skim through the pages without really understanding the context or experiencing the true joy of reading a book.

A good book can be the best portable friend of children during this time. It has the potential to nurture a young mind and widen their sphere of experience without moving an inch. CHILDLINE 1098 has uploaded several e-books and comics on their website for children in English as well as in regional languages. Here are few interesting e-book links for children Bacche, Vayu Aur Corona (Hindi), Chuka Break the Silence