Ms. Noelle’s Tips: 4 Tips for a Healthy Winter

1. Layer your children’s clothing!

When children play, they got hot. When they get hot, they take off their jackets! Unfortunately without a jacket and only one layer of clothing for extra protection, your child is likely to get sick. All it takes is a little chill or cough to start a cold. Without a hat, this becomes even worse. The best way to reduce illness is to dress boys and girls in layers of light underclothes, which cannot be removed in a hurry. They absorb sweat and provide a good degree of comfort and protection, even if you remove their jacket.

Now that the cold weather has arrived, remember to update your child’s extra clothing here at school. Each child should have 2 full sets of clothes, including socks and undergarments. Make sure that your child has a jacket or sweatshirt, ready for outside playtime. Don’t forget to label everything with your child’s name.

2. Change bed sheets weekly!

Those dripping noses and coughs cover the bed sheets with germs. Don’t forget to wash bed sheets at least once a week in hot water. It’ll also get rid of those dust mites and other allergens.

3. Keep sick children at home.

Children may not attend school when ill. A sick child won’t be allowed to enter the classroom. If a child becomes ill at school, we’ll alert the parent(s). Keep in mind that a child should be without fever for 24 hours before returning to school, or longer (based on the recommendations of his/her pediatrician).

4. Teach healthy habits.

Remind your children to cover their mouths with their arm — not their hand — when coughing. Also, remind your children to wash their hands frequently, especially before and after lunch, after the restroom, and after they blow/wipe their noses. Teaching these good habits will prevent the spreading of flu season germs.

Stay warm and healthy, everyone. Enjoy the holidays!