It seems that germs and children go hand and hand…literally. Close quarters help germs spread equally to all children in a “school” or “group play” setting. In a child care environment upper respiratory infections are more common and a child that is contagious will bring the germs home to you and your family.
The following are proven methods that can help prevent the spread of germs:
Hand washing prevents many germs from invading our bodies. Sing “Happy Birthday” twice to ensure you have done all you can to clean your hands effectively.
Cough into the crook of your arm and teach your children to do so especially when no tissues are available.
Make sure that personal belongings are not touching. Lice like to hitch a ride on coats, hats, cots and sheets.
Large toys and mouth toys must be properly sanitized. According to New York State regulations a properly prepared bleach solution should be used.
Leave your child at home when you see any signs of illness, even if they are fever free. For your child’s comfort, there is no place like home.
Immunize you child according to the American Academy of Pediatrics Immunization Schedule.
One Special Note: Studies seem to indicate that although children in a child care environment “DO” get ill more often they also tend to get less serious illnesses as their immune systems work more effectively.
Some helpful websites:
www.healthychildren.org
www.aap.org
www.cdc.gov
www.ocfs.ny.gov/main/childcare
