As the seasons change and the weather cools, parents know cold air isn’t the only thing making its way into the classroom. Between school, activities, and spending more time around other children, the occasional cough or sniffle can quickly become part of the season. While there’s no foolproof germ-free plan to keep them all away, a few healthy habits can help families build staying healthy into their daily routine.
One of the easier places to start is handwashing, as encouraging children to wash before and after eating, after exploring new things, and when they get home from school can help reduce the spread of germs. When we’re helping them build their routines, making staying clean a regular part of the day can help turn it into a habit. A balanced sleep, meal, and hydration schedule is equally important to keep children energized and their bodies in the best position to combat germs.
Teaching children to cough or sneeze into their elbow instead of their hands or open air is another small lesson that can make a difference. Parents can help by keeping frequently touched items at home, like lunchboxes and backpacks, cleaned regularly. Sometimes, the healthiest choice is knowing when to stay home, such as when your child has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Giving them time to rest can help them recover and avoid spreading illness to classmates and teachers. The goal isn’t to make your home a totally germ-free zone but to give children habits they can practice daily and carry into adulthood.
