• Video
  • Shop
  • Culture
  • Family
  • Wellness
  • Food
  • Living
  • Style
  • Travel
  • News
  • Book Club
  • GMA3: WYNTK
  • Newsletter
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Terms of Use
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Contact Us
  • © 2025 ABC News
  • Family

Pediatricians 'strongly advocate' kids return to in-person learning this fall

3:08
Here's what schools could look like this fall amid pandemic
STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images
Genevieve Shaw-Brown
ByGenevieve Shaw Brown
July 01, 2020, 2:08 PM

In news that is sure to be music to some parents' ears and worrisome to others, the American Academy of Pediatrics has taken a clear stand on the issue of in-person school come September.

In a statement posted to its website, the AAP wrote that it "strongly advocates that all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with a goal of having students physically present in school."

Editor’s Picks

The controversial water safety technique that could save a baby from drowning

  • Jul 01, 2020

How to have an 'intentional' summer in 7 simple steps

  • Jun 23, 2020

Related Articles

MORE: 'Choice boards' are the summer learning hack every kid needs

The AAP stressed the importance of school in children's lives.

"Schools are fundamental to child and adolescent development and well-being and provide our children and adolescents with academic instruction, social and emotional skills, safety, reliable nutrition, physical/speech and mental health therapy, and opportunities for physical activity, among other benefits," the APP said. "Beyond supporting the educational development of children and adolescents, schools play a critical role in addressing racial and social inequity."

Related Articles

MORE: Mom gives husband 'COVID contract' of responsibilities: 'It was the only way'

The stance came as part of a list of recommendations for safe re-entry to schools amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the six recommendations were:

- School policies must be flexible and nimble in responding to new information and administrators must be willing to refine approaches when specific policies are not working.

- Special considerations and accommodations to account for the diversity of youth should be made, especially for our vulnerable populations, including those who are medically fragile, live in poverty, have developmental challenges, or have special health care needs or disabilities, with the goal of safe return to school.

- Policies should be practical, feasible and appropriate for child and adolescent's developmental stage.

Dr. Susan Coffin, an attending physician at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pediatric Infectious Disease, agreed.

"I do think it is very important that students get back to school for social, psychological as well as intellectual development," she told "Good Morning America."

The AAP recognized differing needs for students when it comes to school re-entry. For example, while it may not work for younger children to wear face coverings, older kids are recommended to do so. Physical distancing, special education and bussing are all addressed.

Editor’s Picks

The controversial water safety technique that could save a baby from drowning

  • Jul 01, 2020

How to have an 'intentional' summer in 7 simple steps

  • Jun 23, 2020

Up Next in Family—

Bruce Willis' wife Emma Heming says she feels 'profoundly sad' on Father's Day

June 15, 2025

Over 18,000 Bugaboo high chairs voluntarily recalled due to potential fall hazard

June 13, 2025

New car seat regulations go into effect next year: What parents should know

June 13, 2025

Christie Brinkley opens up about raising kids in the spotlight: 'The toughest'

June 11, 2025

Shop GMA Favorites

ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Sponsored Content by Taboola

The latest lifestyle and entertainment news and inspiration for how to live your best life - all from Good Morning America.
  • Contests
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Children’s Online Privacy Policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Press
  • Feedback
  • Shop FAQs
  • ABC News
  • ABC
  • All Videos
  • All Topics
  • Sitemap

© 2025 ABC News
  • Privacy Policy— 
  • Your US State Privacy Rights— 
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy— 
  • Interest-Based Ads— 
  • Terms of Use— 
  • Do Not Sell My Info— 
  • Contact Us— 

© 2025 ABC News