It was only a few short weeks ago when parents were spending the end of summer equipping their kids with new supplies, books and clothes for the academic year ahead. But there’s one preparation parents tend to overlook—preventing their kids from getting sick.
With lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-changing health landscape, the approach to shielding your children from the multitude of illnesses that they may be exposed to as we get into the fall cold and flu season requires a mix of both time-tested practices and new health considerations. Here’s how parents can protect their children from getting sick this school year.
Prioritize vaccinations and checkups
As a cornerstone of preventive health, it is essential for parents to protect their children from serious diseases such as Hepatitis B, meningitis and tetanus. Parents should always schedule a checkup with their child and pediatrician before the school year begins. During the checkup, a pediatrician will go over the child’s vaccine history and status based on California’s immunization guidelines for students. With new COVID-19 variants spreading and with hospitalizations on the rise again, pediatricians may also ask parents to consider COVID-19 vaccine, flu and/or RSV immunizations if their children are eligible.
Encourage proper hygiene
Reinforcing good hygiene is an invaluable habit for children to learn. Schools are a breeding ground for germs, so teaching children about effective ways to prevent the spread of them lowers their risk of getting sick, along with other students and faculty. Teaching them how to properly wash their hands with soap and water, how and when to use hand sanitizer and the importance of not sharing personal items such as food, utensils, cups and straws can go a long way.
Keep children masks on hand
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, staying updated on mask guidelines and recommendations in school is essential. Local health authorities or your child’s school may make wearing masks mandatory at any time during the school year, so ensure you stock up on masks for children that offer comfort and protection. Luckily, there are many mask options for kids on the market now that are high-performing, well-fitted and come in many different colors and designs to help children feel comfortable while wearing them at school.
Teach coughing and sneezing etiquette
Many children, especially younger children, often forget to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. It’s important to teach your children how germs can spread this way and encourage your children to use tissues or their elbows to prevent the spread of germs. It’s also important to equip students with tissues when they go to school and to teach them the proper way to dispose of them. These small precautions are very effective at preventing the transmission of germs.
Strengthen your child’s immune system
One of the best ways your child can help ward off illnesses is through their immune system. Kids can strengthen their immunity by eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients and immunity-boosting foods such as citrus, vegetables and yogurt. Parents should also ensure their child gets quality and adequate sleep, which allows the body to repair and defend itself from illness. Finally, engaging your children in physical activity is important since it enhances the circulation of immune cells, which makes their immunity stronger and better equipped to fight off future infections.
As we navigate the 2023-2024 school year, preparing yourself and your family for unique health challenges that may be ahead is crucial. Staying informed of masking and vaccine guidelines and incorporating these tools and practices into a daily routine can ensure a smooth and healthy transition as children return to school.
Dr. Jerome C. Smith is a pediatric specialist with MarinHealth.
