Enrolling your child in preschool is an excellent start to setting them on the path for academic success. However, your little one can’t make the most of this opportunity if they are sick half the month. This is why staying healthy and keeping kids from getting sick at school is important. Take note of the following helpful tips to keep your child from getting sick at school.
Train your child to use utensils
Instead of using their bare hands to put food in their mouth, train your child to use utensils. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks, it’s always best to use utensils as it will prevent germs from tainting their food.
Teach them about proper hand washing
Proper hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of disease. Be sure to teach your child how to wash their hands properly not only before and after meals but also after using the bathroom, blowing their nose, playing outside, etc. This will help reduce their risk of catching illness-causing viruses and germs.
Get adequate sleep
Getting enough sleep is an excellent way to strengthen your child’s immune system. Make sure they get 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night to keep their bodies well-rested. Adequate sleep is not only important in keeping them physically and emotionally healthy. It also plays an important role in their performance at school.
Encourage them to exercise
Who says exercise is only for adults? According to pediatricians, kids should have regular physical activity. This may be challenging today because a lot of children are addicted to technology, gadgets and the internet. However, it is your responsibility as a parent to control their use of mobile devices and make sure they stay active. Don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to encourage your child to get some exercise. For example, you can take them for a kid-friendly hike on the weekends. Or, you can make it a daily habit to bring them to the park where they can run around and play with other kids instead of staying home.
Use hand sanitizer
Soap and water are not always accessible when your child needs to wash their hands. This is where hand sanitizer comes in handy. Keep a bottle in your car or in your purse.
Plan healthy family meals
Healthy eating starts at home. When it comes to keeping your school kids healthy, it is crucial to plan out well-balanced meals. For breakfast, they should have the right combination of protein and complex carbohydrates that will boost their brain function and keep them energized throughout the day. It’s also best to have them bring home-prepped lunches instead of meals provided by the school. This way, you can make sure they are given the right vitamins and nutrients they need. If your child is a little picky, there are plenty of ways to make healthy lunches more fun and exciting. You can even get them to eat vegetables dressed up in colorful shapes and combinations. A little creativity can go a long way.
Keep them from touching their eyes, nose and mouth
Germs and infectious viruses can easily enter your child’s body if they keep on touching their nose, eyes and mouth. Keep their hands away from these parts of their body. Every time they do, make sure to call them out until they stop the habit.
Preschool is an excellent place where children begin to learn the tools that will help them become successful in the future. It’s where they grow and develop academically, socially and emotionally. But it’s also where they pick up germs and illnesses. Make sure your kids are protected from sickness and diseases with these helpful tips. And if you’re looking for a preschool that will ensure your child’s holistic growth and wellness, please consider Imagine Nation Learning Center.