Many families rely on child care providers like early childhood centers or daycare to keep their children safe and occupied. With many kids coming in and out of these facilities every day, it’s possible for germs to spread, potentially leading to illness. Parents and guardians can help boost their children’s immune systems and lower their risk of getting sick with these tips.

4 Ways to Help Your Child Avoid Getting Sick

1. Promote Hand Hygiene

Promote healthy hygiene by ensuring children wash their hands before every meal and after using the restroom. Many families also wash their hands immediately when entering the home to prevent outside germs from contaminating items in the house. Work with your child care provider to help your child continue these healthy habits away from home and avoid exposure to bacteria and viruses.

2. Provide Nutritional Food

Kids who eat unprocessed foods like fruits and vegetables have better immune systems. Cook meals at home using real ingredients, like spices, vegetables, and whole grains, so your children’s diets are full of vitamins A and C. These nutrients fight against infection and inflammation.

3. Keep Them Home If They’re Sick

Children who have runny noses, fevers, or coughs should stay home to prevent spreading their cold or flu to other kids. Select a child care provider with a policy of sending children home if they exhibit these symptoms. This policy encourages parents to keep sick kids home, limiting the germs in the daycare, and reducing the likelihood that your little one will come home infected.

4. Leave Daycare Items at Daycare

Kids often want to bring their favorite toys everywhere, which can spread germs from daycare to the house. Prevent cross-contamination by creating a backpack of items that stays at the daycare. Place a handful of toys and a blanket in the bag, so your child has a few comfort items. Take these belongings home weekly to sanitize them and wash any blankets or stuffed toys before sending them back to the child care facility.

Families interested in child care should contact Plainville Early Learning Center in Hartford County, CT. This center’s staff has provided affordable care for kids ages 18-months to 11-years-old since 1970. Call this child care provider at (860) 747-3321 or visit the website for information on their early childhood development philosophies that nurture social and academic development.