Going to school is an exciting time for children as they learn and grow, but it can also be a breeding ground for infections. With so many students in close proximity, germs can easily spread from one person to another.

However, with the right healthy habits in place, it is possible to minimize the risk of infections and keep your child healthy throughout the school year. In this article, we will discuss ten essential habits that can help avoid infections at school.

1. Proper Handwashing

One of the most effective ways to prevent infections is through proper handwashing. Encourage your child to wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

Teach them to lather their hands, including the back of the hands, between fingers, and under the nails. Remind them to wash their hands before meals, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing.

2. Use Hand Sanitizer

When soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative. Choose an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

Teach your child the proper technique of rubbing the sanitizer in their hands until it dries completely. However, it should be noted that hand sanitizers should not be used as a substitute for handwashing, but rather as a backup option.

3. Avoid Touching the Face

Hands come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day, and viruses and bacteria can easily transfer from these surfaces to the face, increasing the risk of infections.

Teach your child to avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimize the chances of germs entering their body.

4. Vaccinations

Ensuring that your child’s vaccinations are up to date is crucial for their overall health and protection against infections. Follow the recommended vaccination schedule provided by healthcare professionals.

Vaccinations not only help your child but also contribute to herd immunity, reducing the chances of diseases spreading within the school community.

5. Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Coughing and sneezing can release respiratory droplets containing germs into the air, making it easy for others to inhale them. Teach your child to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or their elbow (not hands) when they cough or sneeze.

This prevents the spread of infectious droplets and protects others around them.

Social distancing involves maintaining a safe distance from others, especially when someone is coughing, sneezing, or showing signs of illness. Encourage your child to keep a distance of at least six feet from their classmates whenever possible.

This helps reduce the risk of respiratory droplets reaching them and lowers the chances of contracting infections.

7. Healthy Diet and Hydration

A well-balanced diet and staying properly hydrated play a significant role in maintaining a strong immune system. Provide your child with nutritious meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Encourage them to drink enough water throughout the day to keep their body hydrated. A healthy immune system can better fight off infections.

8. Sufficient Sleep and Rest

Adequate sleep and rest are essential for the body to recover and recharge. Establish a consistent sleep schedule for your child and ensure they are getting the recommended amount of sleep based on their age.

Quality sleep strengthens the immune system, making it more resistant to infections.

Sharing personal items like water bottles, food containers, stationery, or any items that come into contact with the face should be avoided. Teach your child about the importance of using their own belongings to minimize the exchange of germs.

Encourage them to label their items to prevent mix-ups.

10. Regularly Clean and Disinfect

Keeping the environment clean and disinfected helps eliminate germs and reduces the risk of infections. Teach your child to clean their belongings, such as backpacks, lunch boxes, and water bottles regularly.

Schools also play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness, so encourage them to implement proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols.

Conclusion

By adopting these healthy habits, your child can minimize the risk of infections at school and stay healthy throughout the year. Consistency and reinforcement are key, so make these habits a part of your child’s daily routine.

Encourage their school to promote infection prevention strategies as well. Together, we can create a healthier and safer learning environment for our children.