My two children and I spent the summer home together. Yes we did venture out shopping and to the park, but I did not get a summer job and they did not attend the babysitter’s house or preschool.
At the beginning of this month, we all got back into a routine of having a place to go each day. I began a new year of teaching, my daughter started part time preschool, and my son headed back to the babysitter’s house. Within a week of the family getting back on schedule, we all had a cold, cough, or runny nose. I noticed that all of the children at the sitter’s were sniffling also.
It is amazing how quickly public places, especially with children, can spread germs. We can go all summer with virtually no symptoms of sickness. However as soon as school begins, the tissues roll out by the handfuls.
Because most families have the same experience as mine, I decided to offer some tips for you to share with your children about spreading germs at school.
· If your child has a nunny nose, stick a tissue in his or her pocket. Remind your child to use it rather than a shirtsleeve.
· We are always reminding our children to cover their mouth when they cough. While this prevents germs from flying into the air, it also places germs on the hand. The hand touches many objects during the day, such as telephones, doorknobs, and other people. Try teaching your child to cough into the bend of his or her arm. This area is rarely in contact with objects that other people will touch.
· Children often do not wash their hands well. Teach your child to use warm water and soap and to sing a song or say the ABC’s while washing.
· Discuss how important it is to keep objects out of the mouth. You would be surprised how many kindergarten children place crayons, hair, and more into their mouth.
Illuminating Household Germs
Germ Laundering
Kids, Shopping Carts, Stomachaches