With flu and cold season in swing, it’s crucial to protect your child from contracting these viruses. Flu- and cold-related complications can leave them out of preschool for days or weeks. You can help your little one stay healthy throughout the winter by implementing the tips below. 

How to Keep Your Child From Catching the Cold & Flu

1. Get Them Vaccinated

Nothing can replace the benefits of a flu vaccination. The virus evolves every year, and the latest vaccines are designed to defend against it. Children aged 6 months and older qualify for a flu vaccination, so get your child vaccinated in a local pharmacy or health clinic. A doctor will administer the medication either as a shot or a nasal spray. You can’t vaccinate against the cold, which is why you’ll need to adopt other healthy habits.

2. Teach Them to Wash Their Hands

Your child needs to wash their hands whenever they’re home, in public, or at preschool. This may drastically lower their chances of catching a cold or flu since they’re keeping the bacteria and viruses off their body. Supervise them as they scrub their hands for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the bathroom, and after sneezing or coughing. Send your child to preschool with a hand sanitizer, so they can clean their hands and eliminate germs. 

3. Teach Them What Not to Share

Learning how to share is an important part of childhood development. However, while kids share toys, books, or even food, they could spread viruses and get sick. Teach them not to share foods, drinks, straws, and utensils. Flu complications can lead to severe dehydration, pneumonia, and brain dysfunction—all issues that can be avoided by healthy practices. Additionally, ask the preschool staff to keep an eye on your child to ensure they’re keeping their food to themselves and washing their hands as needed.

Plainville Early Learning Center is committed to providing a safe, healthy preschool environment for children in the Plainville, CT, area. They welcome children aged 18 months to 11 years and offer comprehensive early childhood development programs. Visit their website for an in-depth look at their early learning center and call (860) 747-3321 to discuss admissions.