National Secretary of the Italian Pediatric Society
FROM 3 April Italy turns red again. It will be another Easter in lockdown, without relatives or friends. But it will still be a party for children, in the name of chocolate, doves and sweets. Holidays can be a wonderful opportunity to spend time in the company of parents, less bothered by work, smartworking and everyday chores. Moments of rest, relaxation, but also an opportunity to get distracted a bit, while respecting the rules. All of us, young and old alike, feel the weight of this year of pandemic from Covid-19 and we necessarily need some exuberant moments, of play, of joy and carefree.
Covid, because even children must be vaccinated
by Antonio Cassone
So why not take advantage of these Easter holidays to dedicate yourself and our family, coloring the eggs for a pretty centerpiece or doing some nice work with pencils and colored paper. Definitely not to forget a personalized greeting card for grandparents or for distant relatives. While waiting for the vaccinations to be completed and for a return to a normal life, it is important for the whole family to feel close, even if far away. So, green light for creativity with videochat and technological means that allow us to exchange virtual kisses and hugs to guarantee an emotional and affective closeness with the people we love and who live far from us.
But even if it is a holiday, it is important to respect the needs of the little ones, who, for example, have their own physiological need for sleep and regular nutrition. Likewise, in older children, the hours dedicated daily to homework and school activities must not be “replaced” with tablets and video games. That is, some rules always apply, even on vacation.
Covid: delays in vaccination against meningitis endanger the little ones
by Letizia Gabaglio
Even if an Easter in lockdown, let us remember that for children it is always a party and that the mood of the parents inevitably reflects on that of the little ones. At Easter, children can’t wait to open their egg, discover the surprise and dive into the chocolate. However, it is important to always check that the gift is safe and suitable for the child’s age and that it has the CE mark. And if you don’t have to give up some delicacies based on sweets and chocolate, it is important not to leave excessive quantities available to children. That is, avoiding excesses. Excessive consumption of chocolates, candies and various sweets can in fact cause a severe stomach ache and “ruin” the party. And we don’t send good eating habits on vacation, always giving space to fruit and vegetables, important allies of our immune system.
Finally, to work off the Sunday lunch, plan some outdoor activities, such as a walk, a bike ride, or a fun “egg hunt”, always in compliance with the anti COVID-19 rules. Because Covid-19, unfortunately, does not go on vacation …….
.