Prevent sick days!

The beginning of the school year brings many opportunities for children to learn and grow.  However, by spending all day with other kids in school, children are also more exposed to illnesses and viruses that can be spread easily.  Use these suggestions to help prevent your kids from getting sick this fall:

Daily:

• Wash your hands and your children’s hands before eating and after the bathroom!  Bacteria and viruses that cause illnesses are on the things you touch every day, and are most common during the colder seasons.
• Get the nutrition you need!  Eat foods rich in vitamins and other important nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables, so that your immune system functions well.  For more information about healthy foods, visit http://www.mypyramid.gov
• Sleep well!  The majority of school-aged children required between 10 and 14 hours of sleep every night.
• Stay protected against the cold!  Wear the appropriate clothes to keep warm during colder months, such as hats, scarves, and gloves.
• Get vaccinated!  Make sure that your children receive all the recommended vaccinations.  Children younger than two should get a flu vaccine every year.  Ask your doctor about the benefits of the flu vaccine for the other members of your family.

If you get sick:

• Careful sneezing!  Make sure you cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze, and use tissues often, so that you don’t continue to spread bacteria to other people.
• Drink water!  When sick, drink plenty of water and fluids (without caffeine) to prevent dehydration.

With this advice, you and your children can stay healthy, with the energy to explore and learn together this fall. 

Try this activity at home . . .

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