Short Wave Coronavirus Is Closing Schools: Here's How Families Can Cope.
Mar 17, 2020
Corey Turner, NPR's education correspondent, discusses the significant impact of COVID-19 school closures on families. He provides insights into the rationale behind these decisions and draws parallels to historical responses to epidemics. Additionally, a psychologist offers coping strategies for families, stressing the importance of routines, communication, and creativity at home. The conversation highlights how vulnerable families face heightened challenges and emphasizes the need for emotional connectivity with loved ones during this difficult time.
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Proactive School Closures
- Closing schools proactively, even without many local infections, can significantly slow disease spread.
- This approach limits contact and reduces the chance of kids getting sick and spreading illness.
1918 Flu Pandemic School Closures
- During the 1918 flu pandemic, cities that closed schools early had significantly lower death rates.
- St. Louis, which acted proactively, had a death rate nearly three times lower than Pittsburgh, which delayed closures.
Impact on Vulnerable Families
- School closures disproportionately affect vulnerable, low-income families.
- Many children rely on schools for meals, medical care, and a safe environment, making closures complex.