How can we prevent germs from school? Certain things, like germs, can spread like wildfire in schools. Schools keep kids and their germs in close quarters, which can create an environment where students can pass infections and viruses from one student to the next. School kids miss nearly 22 million school days every year due to the common cold alone. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even though you will not be able to protect your kids from everything, there are certain steps you can take to prevent them from catching infections. Read on to find out how.
Ways to Keep Your Child Germ Free While at School
Are you wondering how to keep germs away while your child is at school? Here are some tips you can implement.
Wash Your Hands
One of the best ways to prevent infections is to practice good hand washing using soapy water. You should teach your kids to scrub until they finish singing the entire alphabet and teach older kids to count to 20 prior to rinsing their hands.
Avoid Sharing
This may seem like a golden rule to go against, but it is imperative that you teach your child not to share personal items including water bottles, hats, brushes, earbuds, and lip balms with one another.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Coughs and sneeze into the crease of your elbow or a tissue instead of using your hands. Always make sure that your child washes their hands, or sanitizes them afterward.
Avoid Touching Your Face
When it comes to face touching, younger kids are notorious for displaying this habit. Teach your kids to keep their fingers out of their mouths, ears, and noses.
Avoid Using Water Fountains
Always pack water bottles for your children if their schools allow them. If not, make sure that you teach them how to drink from a water fountain without putting their mouths on the spigot.
Eat Fruits and Veggies
A healthy way to boost your child’s immune system, adults included, is by eating a nutritious diet full of fruits and veggies.
Get a Good Night’s Rest
Your immune system needs rest in order to remain healthy and strong. Children between the ages of 10 and 17 need about 8.5 to 9.5 hours of sleep. Children between the ages of 5 and 10 need at least 10 to 11 hours of sleep. Children between the ages of 3 and 5 need between 11 and 13 hours of sleep. This information is according to the CDC.
Consider the Flu Shot
Another way to protect your kids against influenza is getting a yearly flu shot. Make sure that your children receive one every year from their pediatrician.
Stay Home If Sick
Remember, sick kids should not be in attendance at school. Their weakened immune systems can make them more susceptible to germs. You also risk getting other kids sick in school. If your child has a fever, make sure that you keep them home. Your body has the highest number of germs when you have a fever. This means that you are more likely to infect others.