Teaching Your Kids About Germ Prevention

With fall just around the corner, it might feel like you’re finally getting the hang of your back-to-school routine. The last thing you want to experience is your child suddenly waking up too sick for school. Though you can’t protect them from all germs, you can provide them with the knowledge on how to best keep them from spreading or making their way into your home.

When to Wash Their Hands
The number one fighter of germs is through proper handwashing. For many kids, this can be something they overlook or an activity they rush through. Hands should be washed after using the bathroom, before eating, or before touching eyes, nose, or mouth.

How to Properly Wash Away Germs
Teach your child the steps to properly wash their hands. First, wet the hands with clean, running water. Then lather your hands (remember to get the back), between the fingers, and under the nails. Scrubbing should occur for at least 20 seconds. Teach them to hum the Happy Birthday song from beginning to end twice. Finally, rinse and dry thoroughly.

Be Mindful of What You Share
If your child is near a classmate who is coughing or sneezing, make sure they know not to share anything such as toys, towels, or food with them. If your child is battling something, remind them to discard used tissues as soon as they can. Instruct them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue, not their hand, when sneezing, coughing, or blowing their nose. You can also teach them to sneeze like a vampire: wrap their face into their shirt, tucking their nose into the crook of their elbow!

Though you can do your part in preventing the spread of germs, colds and other illnesses still happen. If your child is feeling under the weather and sneezing or fever or cold-like symptoms do occur, the Walk-in Clinic in Gillette, Wyoming, is here to help.

We can provide you with the personal and quality care you need. Save your spot in line or walk-in today!

Learn more at www.cchwyo.org/wic.