It's winter once again, and the season has arrived its usual risk of cold and influenza. Most adults know that the best way to help prevent illness is by washing your hands and doing your part to prevent the spread. But how do we teach our little ones about germ prevention. We asked Allison Meyer, MD, PPG – Pediatrics, for guidance.
What is cold and flu etiquette?
Cold and flu etiquette consists of considerate things you can do to help prevent the spread of colds and flu this season. These measures will keep your child from getting sick or making others ill.
Why is cold and flu etiquette important for children?
With many children going to school or daycare, they encounter plenty of germs. Unfortunately, they will most likely bring some of them home with them to share with the rest of the family. That is why it’s so important to teach them about steps for prevention.
How can parents teach children about germs?
Use these points when talking to your kids about general cold and flu etiquette:
- Wash your hands. This is a simple and effective step for prevention. Germs love to live on a lot of surfaces, so the more you take time to wash your hands before eating, touching your face or leaving a public place, the more you protect yourself and others.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
- If you feel sick, you should stay at home! I know we don’t like to miss special events or gatherings, but if you aren’t well, it’s the kindest thing for our friends and teachers.
- Don’t share drinks or food with people who are ill, as we carry a lot of germs in our mouths.
Beyond your instruction, there are a variety of books and short films on the subject. Find one your child will enjoy. If you’re looking online, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and healthychildren.org have good material for all ages.
What are some fun ways to teach children about germ etiquette to decrease the spreading of germs?
One fun option is the glitter game. For this activity, explain that glitter symbolizes germs. Then rub hand lotion onto your child’s hand. Sprinkle a little glitter into the child's hands and have them rub all over. They should see the glitter spread all over their hands. Then hand them a towel to wipe it off. They should see that the glitter is still there. Next, explain to them that the best way to get the glitter off is to wash their hands. This is an excellent opportunity to teach them proper hand washing, which will remove all the glitter.
Enourage your child to “catch” their sneezes and coughs with their elbows or a tissue. Consider having a sticker chart where they collect stickers for captured sneezes and coughs, and work toward earning a small prize.
Remind them that if they happen to catch their cough or sneeze in their hands, they should wash their hands or use hand sanitizer after. Maybe even add bonus points for hand hygiene.
Are there any germ-fighting items parents should put in their child’s backpack?
School-age kids should keep tissues, hand sanitizer and a mask (if they’re old enough to wear one) in their backpack. Check in with them once a week to see if they need refills.
How can parents show children good hand hygiene?
Leading by example is so important! Show your children how to properly wash their hands. As with everything with young kids, the more fun you have with it, the more they will, too. Sing a song, come up with a rhyme or make silly faces in the mirror to pass the time.
If you have concerns about your child’s cold or flu symptoms, contact your pediatrician or family medicine doctor.
