Child Health in Texas

Children will go through a lot of changes. At a very young age, there are periods of quick physical growth. Then they will develop cognitive, social, and life skills. They also begin to build habits and behaviors that impact their future health. Maternal and Child Health (MCH) focuses on supporting Texas families as their children grow.    

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)  

For information and resources about COVID-19 and child health, please visit the following links:

COVID-19 Information

• What to do if you’re sick
• Testing information
• Symptoms
• Prevention tips
• Tips to keep children healthy while school’s out
• Preparing for possible illness at home
• COVID-19 information and referrals

o    Dial 2-1-1, then choose Option 6 (available 24/7)

• Texas Executive Orders and Public Health Disaster Declaration
• Statewide case counts

Coping Strategies & Mental Health

• Talking to children about COVID-19
• Helping children cope
• Stress reduction and coping strategies
• COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line: speak with a mental health professional for help dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, or worry.

o    1-833-986-1919 (available 24/7)

• TPA Pro Bono Project: COVID-19: receive up to two hours of free mental health services provided by the Texas Psychological Association pro bono service providers. Email probono@texaspsyc.org.
• COVIBOOK: Supporting and Reassuring Children
• How You and Your Kids Can De-Stress During Coronavirus
• Supporting Children’s Emotional Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Nutrition

• School Meal Finder
• Local Food Bank Finder

Distance/Home Learning

• School Closure Learning Guide
• Distance Learning Worksheets
• Tips and activities for home learning
• Social Distancing: Parenting, Work from Home, Virtual Tours, Entertainment, and Educational Resources for Families
• Parent-Child Playtime Activities to Promote Healthy Brain Development

Resources for Families

• Help for Parents, Hope for Kids
• 10 Tips for Positive Parenting During COVID-19
• What to Do With Kids at Home on Coronavirus Break
  
  

These resources are specific for families with children ages 1 to 12 years, for COVID-19 resources specific to children with special healthcare needs, visit the DSHS website.