It’s a fact: the best way to avoid getting sick is by washing your hands throughout the day. When you do, you should scrub for at least twenty seconds. A hand sanitizer (one that doesn’t need the use of water or a towel), can come in handy as well, especially when you are in a hurry. You can put one in your car, purse, child’s backpack, etc.
Most hand sanitizers will dry out your skin, so you will also want to use a hand lotion in conjunction with it, especially if you use it often or have sensitive skin.
You should have your child wash their hands during these times:
1. Upon awakening
2. After going potty
3. Before and after eating
4. Before and after crafts, coloring, playing outside, etc.
5. Right away when they return home from school or daycare
6. After any unsanitary activity (nose-picking seems to be a big one!)
Hand washing isn’t the only way you and your child can decrease your chances of getting sick. Here are some other ways your child can help:
· Keeping hands to yourself
· No kissing classmates
· No using other’s lip gloss
· No drinking from other’s cups or sharing food
· Washing hands periodically throughout the school day
· Keeping little fingers out of their eyes, nose, mouth, etc.
· Don’t put pens, pencils, etc. in your mouth
You cannot always avoid getting sick. You and your children will catch colds, and maybe the flu. However, by using these tips and teaching them to your children, your family can avoid catching a bug most of the time. Children often have a hard time grasping the idea of a germ, because they can’t see it. Just let them know that there are little bugs that you can’t see that could make you sick, but when you wash your hands they go away.
Regular exercise and a healthy, balanced diet can also build a stronger immune system to help fight off colds.
Stay Safe!