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Caring for family and friends takes on a new meaning as we chart these changing times. Scroll for tips on supporting family and friends.

Tips for the times

Do you still need to wear a mask after getting the COVID vaccine?

Yes! While experts learn more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide under real-life conditions, it will be important for everyone to continue to wear a mask, avoid close contact and wash their hands.

» Latest info

Preparing your family for in-person school

Public and private schools in Oregon and Washington are taking steps to safely prepare for in-person learning. Whether your child has the option to attend in-person or virtually, it’s important to be prepared and plan for each option.

Learn more

Online learning activities for kids

Whether your child's school is virtual or in-person, these free and discounted educational materials can keep the learning going for kids ages 5 – 18.

» See activities

Talking to friends and family about wearing a face covering

Many of us are adjusting to wearing face masks and feel good about helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19 with face coverings. Here are some things to consider when talking with friends or family about wearing masks:

Ask them to help you understand where they’re coming from. “No one really wants to wear a mask, but I can tell this really bothers you. Is there anything I can do to help?”
Avoid shaming or scare tactics, such as sharing stories of outbreaks due to non-masking or criticizing people who don’t mask. This type of talk is more likely to shut down conversations.
Share information on face coverings, including facts on the effectiveness of masking to control the spread of COVID-19.

Get the facts

Get the kids outside safely

Summer this year looked a little different. With the state mask mandates and social distancing, it can be tricky to get your kids to play outside safely.

Here are a few ideas to have some family fun in the sun.

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Should kids wear masks?

Kids can do their part too! By wearing masks, children can help slow the spread of COVID-19. Watch two youngsters show you how to mask up.

Watch the video

How to support your elderly friends and family

It’s clear that COVID-19 hits older adults the hardest. Those 65 and older with conditions such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes are at the highest risk. With older people advised to stay home, you can support them by:

Delivering groceries or prescriptions to their homes
Calling them to talk
Trying video chat (Skype, FaceTime) so you can see each other
Writing letters or emails, send photos, books or puzzles
Encouraging them to wash their hands often

"I think it's important in a time like this to maintain a sense of community," says Shirin Sukumar, M.D., medical director of Legacy Medical Group–Geriatrics.

► Watch the video

How to talk to your kids about COVID-19

Wondering how to talk to kids about the coronavirus? Our experts say to stay calm, offer them chances to talk, and give them a sense of control and order.

Kids, mental health and the coronavirus

Kids are resilient. But social isolation, lack of activities and family stress can affect children’s mental and behavioral health. Use tools to support your child’s emotional health.

» Find resources