Are your children prepared to return to school?
By Peter S. Waldstein, M.D., F.A.A.P and Julia A. White, M.D., F.A.A.P
Back to school time is upon us, which is a great opportunity to make sure your child is ready from a health perspective. It is also a great time to refresh on illness prevention while being at school.
Staying Healthy
Maintaining proper health begins at home. Back to school time is a good excuse to refamiliarize your children on the importance of hand washing at home and school. Most illness is spread through contact, and hand washing has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent your child from becoming ill while at school. Washing before eating, after playtime, and anytime before touching the face, mouth, or eyes is key. If you are not able to wash, you may use hand sanitizer instead. You can consider packing a small travel-sized Purell bottle in your child’s bag to encourage proper hygeine. Also remind your child to cover coughs with the arm. Should your child become ill, he or she should stay home to prevent others from becoming ill. Check with your pediatrician if you are unsure if they should stay home. (more…)