It's Cold and Flu Season...

Ask any teacher, "What is your least favorite season of the year?" and most of them will enthusiastically respond, "WINTER!"

Although being a school teacher during the holidays is a lot of fun, the "gifts" children bring to school (i.e. cold and flu bugs) can wreak havoc on the immune systems of teachers and students alike.

Most teachers have a hard time staying healthy and keeping their classrooms healthy during cold and flu season. Imagine trying to keep up with a classroom of 30 runny little noses! Teachers appreciate the healthy habits of conscientious parents and students during this time of year.

Here are a few simple things you can do to help protect your child (and your child's teacher) this cold and flu season:

1. Teach your child proper hand washing techniques. Encourage your child to wash their hands after using the restroom, after recess, before eating, and periodically throughout the day.

2. Teach your child healthy habits. Make sure they get plenty of rest, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, and drink water and healthy juices to stay hydrated. Have them take an age-appropriate multivitamin daily. Encourage them to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Doing so will strengthen their immune system.

3. Pack hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes in the backpacks of older children. Encourage your older students to use these at appropriate times as needed.

4. Discourage children from sharing drinks with friends or siblings. Remind younger children to keep their mouths and noses off toys, pencils, pens and other foreign objects.

5. Do not smoke around your child! Second hand smoke increases the likelihood of your child getting sick! If you smoke, do not smoke in the house or in the car!

6. Make sure your children get their flu shots and vaccinations.

7. If your child is sick, please keep them home! Resting comfortably at home will not only expedite the recovery of your student, but will keep other students from catching the same bug!

I hope these tips will help you and your students stay healthy and happy this cold and flu season!