The new school year has finally kicked off! A new year of school brings a lot of excitement for both children and their parents, and while there are a lot of things to look forward to, there is one thing that we absolutely dread – the cold and flu season.
As parents, during the flu season, it seems that we are either taking care of a sick child or anxiously waiting for the flu take the first victim of your household. Some parents have already gone through the exhausting and stressful time of having a sick child. While it is not always easy to keep our little ones healthy, there some ways that can help them avoid a nasty cold or flu. Check out a few tips to keep your children healthy this flu season.
Wash your hands
Handwashing is already a basic hygiene practice that our kids should be taught at an early age. However, hand washing should be something that you remind your children of consistently during the cold and flu season. It is important that children wash their hands before and after eating, and after using the bathroom, playing outside, and coughing or sneezing into their hands. Washing your hands is the most effective way to eliminate germs. If your kids are younger, you may need to remind them how to properly wash their hands — check out a great procedure to teach them:
- Use warm water to wet your hands
- Scrub your hands with soap, and be sure to get the back of your hands, under your nails, and between your fingers.
- Scrub your hands together for 20 seconds — try slowly humming the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
- Rinse your hands under warm water
- Dry your hands well using a clean towel
Consider a flu shot
It is recommended that anyone six months and older should receive an annual flu shot. Despite common myths, the flu shot does not cause the flu but instead protects kids and adults from getting sick. Becoming sick with the flu can result in mild and severe cases, from a small fever to pneumonia. A flu shot is the ultimate protector against the virus and is a good way to significantly reduce the risk of your children catching it. If you are still unsure about getting a flu shot, talk with your doctor or child’s pediatrician to learn if it is the right choice for your family.
Maintain Physical Activity
Although cold and flu season is packed with cold and dark days, it is still very important to keep children active. Daily exercise and physical activity can help fight off germs and other bacteria that can potentially make your kids vulnerable to illness. You can help your kids practice a healthy active lifestyle by doing family-friendly activities, like taking a walk around the block or playing a game outside.
Have a backup plan for child care
Most flu symptoms are gone within one week, sometimes two. But whether your sitter calls in sick, your child is feeling under the weather, or you’re not feeling too great yourself, you will need a backup child care plan. Luckily, if the flu causes you to need child care in Columbia, MO you’re in luck! When time is of the essence, you can rest assured knowing that A World of Discoveries daycare is available to care for your child.
As one of the only daycares in Columbia, MO that offers 24-hour child care, A World of Discoveries is convenient for parents, even in emergencies. Contact us for more information or to get your child enrolled!