It seems incredible to recall what the fall of 2020 looked like for millions of schoolchildren.

Sports teams missed seasons, and drama productions were postponed.

Proms, parties, and graduation ceremonies were canceled altogether.

Multiethnic students holding school book

Some states, such as Florida, forbid mask mandates outright (viaAARP).

Random testing of students has largely gone by the wayside, as well.

How can you keep your child safe at school?

Black girl face mask writing math problem

The inoculation is currently available for all children over the age of 6 months.

“It all comes down to how much the family wants to avoid COVID-19,” she says.

Dr. Wen adds, “Families could also decide to mask before visiting vulnerable loved ones.

Boy and father washing hands

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Healthalso recommends keeping an eye on the transmission rates in your area.

If you do opt to have your child wear a mask, double-check it’s both comfortable and well-fitting.

Wash hands after nose-blowing.

Avoid sharing food, toys, makeup, and other personal items with friends.

If your child develops any of those symptoms, have them tested either at home or by a doctor.

Here’s to a healthy school year!