Flu season is approaching, and with it comes the risk of spreading contagious illnesses. Keeping children and faculty healthy at an early childhood education center is a top priority for the staff. Infants and toddlers can get sick frequently during the first years of life, so it’s important for preschool centers to practice and promote good hygiene. The tips below are some of the best ways to keep everyone healthy.

3 Ways to Prevent Flu at Early Childhood Education Centers

1. Teach Kids Good Hygiene Habits

Preventing the flu starts with reducing the ways it can be contracted by encouraging youngsters to wash their hands often. Young children are more likely to rub their nose and eyes frequently during the day and then handle toys or touch their peers. If the child has an infection, a virus can be transmitted to other children who play with the toys or staff members who pick up the items. Reading fun stories about germs and consistent hand washing at sinks low enough for toddlers to reach will help them learn the proper hygiene skills.

2. Clean & Sanitize All Toys

At the end of each school day, staff should round up all of the toys, dishes, and other materials to be cleaned. Most of the toys for young children are made of safe plastics so that they can be easily disinfected. Toys are sanitized by washing them with a cleaning product that is labeled to kill the germs. First, clean the toys with warm soapy water to remove debris, then soak the toys in a sink full of water and a one-third cup of bleach to remove bacterial contaminants.

3. Disinfect Surfaces

Eating areas, bathrooms, classrooms, and changing areas should be wiped down each day with a disinfecting product labeled to kill 99.9% of germs. A solution of bleach and water is always effective, or use a hospital grade disinfectant approved by the state. Desks, tables, and chair surfaces should be sprayed with disinfectant, wiped down, and left to dry overnight.

Keeping your child safe, healthy, and engaged is why Seagull Schools in Honolulu, HI, has remained a favorite early childhood education center since 1971. Their preschool learning and day care programs help children develop the educational, social, and interpersonal skills necessary for a successful primary education. Call (808) 261-8534 to speak with a friendly staff member, or visit them online for more information about their services.