Keeping Kids Healthy

Tips to nix germs.

By Bobette Thompson

It seems like once one child starts recuperating from a cough or fever, another child contracts an illness. Steer clear of sickness even in the peskiest of weather by adhering to these simple suggestions. Just be sure to share the wisdom with your children to limit their susceptibility to germs in the classroom and out.

In the Classroom

1. Refrain from touching the eyes and mouth.
2. Sneeze and cough into the inner elbow.
3. Wash hands properly and frequently with soap and water.

Outside the Classroom

1. Continue the first three suggestions for classroom protection at home. Keep in mind that children who wash their hands properly at least four times a day (for at least 20 seconds each time) 24 percent fewer sick days from colds and the flu, and 51 percent fewer sick days due to stomach ailments.
2. Get kids inoculated. Talk to your family’s pediatrician about which vaccinations your children should receive. The flu shot is especially important for children less than 5 years old who are at higher risk for complications.
3. Eat a well-balanced and healthy diet. Preschool-age children should consume between 1,000 and 1,600 calories per day from wholesome dietary staples, such as fruits, vegetables, protein and grains.
4. Get a good night’s sleep. It is recommended that children ages 2 to 5 get 10 to 12 hours of sleep per day.
5. Drink plenty of fluids. Water quenches thirst, milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, and 100-percent juice is rich in fruits and vegetables.
6. Avoid sharing food and drinks with others. It’s common sense, but a surefire way to spread germs and illness is by sharing food and drinks. Avoiding this unhealthy habit helps prevent illness.

Bobette Thompson is the newly elected President of the National Association of Child Care Professionals (NACCP). Thompson has served the organization since 2002 and also serves as the president/CEO of Child Care Systems of America, Inc., an early education management and consulting company. In over 25 years in the industry, she has participated in the opening of 25 centers and consulted with numerous others throughout the country. Thompson advocates using Softsoap brand, which has teamed up with the American Public Health Association, to prevent the spread of germs. Softsoap’s new “Get Ready” hand washing timers attach directly to the Softsoap pump. When pressed, they play a fun song for 20 seconds, the time it takes to properly wash hands. All of the NACCP child care centers are receiving Softsoap hand washing kits, including the hand washing timers, to aid childcare providers in teaching proper hand washing habits in the classroom.