Charlotte Gears Up for Back to School: Tips to Keep Kids Healthy
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s that time of the year again—back to school season is upon us! As parents, we’ve been busy getting our little ones ready for the academic challenges ahead. But in the midst of shopping for school supplies and new clothes, one important aspect might have slipped our minds: preparing our children for the new germs they’ll encounter in school.
This is where the friendly advice from the Urban Housecall Doctors, Dr. Karla and Dr. Rob, comes in handy. With their expertise, they aim to help ensure kids stay healthy while hitting the books. “Everyone is excited to go back to school, but with that excitement comes the need for schools to address several health issues,” Dr. Karla points out. “Keeping your children safe and healthy—and looking out for others—is an absolute top priority,” Dr. Rob agrees.
5 Strategies to Keep Kids Healthy
Here are some simple and effective strategies parents can adopt to help their kids stay healthy this school year:
- Length of Handwashing: Encourage your kids to wash their hands for at least 45 seconds. A fun tip? Teach them to sing the “Happy Birthday” song all the way through while they scrub!
- Technique of Handwashing: It’s not just about rinsing—make sure your child is using the right technique. They need to use a good friction scrub, focusing on the fingertips and even underneath the nails. Kids often forget that it’s not just the palms that need a wash. Every inch counts!
- Protecting Against Touching Germs: After washing their hands, remind your kids not to turn off the faucet with bare hands. They can use a paper towel as a barrier. Also, avoid grabbing the doorknob directly; try using a paper towel to open the door. Simple changes can make a big difference!
- Hand Sanitizer: Sometimes, it can be tricky for kids to find opportunities to wash up. It can be helpful if they carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer in their backpack. A quick squirt before lunch, after using the bathroom, or post-coughing/sneezing can go a long way in keeping those pesky germs at bay.
- Wipes for Younger Children: For the little ones, wet wipes can be a great alternative to keep those hands clean. Make it a habit to remind them to clean up before grabbing food or after sharing school supplies.
Sharing is part of school life—but it can also expose children to unwanted germs. “School-aged children often share items like lunch boxes, cups, or stationery, which can be gateways to infection,” Dr. Rob explains. Monitor their habits too. If you notice them biting their nails or sucking their thumbs, it may be worth gently redirecting them to healthier behaviors.
It’s All About Vaccinations
Another important factor in keeping kids healthy is ensuring they’re up to date on their vaccinations. “Vaccines offer the best protection against communicable diseases,” Dr. Karla reminds us. Some diseases that were once controlled are unfortunately making a comeback due to declines in vaccination rates. Stay on schedule for vaccines or easily follow a catch-up plan if your child has fallen behind. Don’t let the myths fool you; research shows that vaccines are safe and effective.
With just a little preparation and awareness, we can help our children minimize their exposure to germs while at school. As they head back to the classroom filled with excitement, let’s equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to stay healthy! For more tips and information, visit UrbanHouseCall.com.
Let’s make this school year a healthy and happy one!
