Winter is prime time for germs and sickness to thrive. There are plenty of preventative measures children can learn in order to ward off illness, we just need to inform them of healthy habits. It never hurts to stock up on some electrolytes and soup in the pantry just in case, but those should be your backup, not your surrender.  Here are some tips for keeping children healthy in the winter months:

• Wash Hands: Washing hands is the most effective way to get rid of germs. Make sure they use soap and warm water after using the restroom, before eating, after coming home from a friend’s house, school, or anywhere else.
  • Pro parent tip: have them sing a song while washing their hands to ensure all germs are gone.

• Don’t Touch: Teach children not to touch their eyes, mouth and nose. That is an invitation for germs to enter the body. Instead, they can use a tissue!

• Change the Toothbrush: If someone is sick, germs hide in the bristles and can lead to an infection down the road. Having a couple of extra toothbrushes on hand will help save a trip to the store later on. If you are worried about the environmental impact, try recyclable Preserve toothbrushes made from recycled yogurt cups or uDoBrush bamboo toothbrushes (bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants in the world and therefore most sustainable resources…this company also donates one toothbrush to a child in need with your purchase).

• Eat the Rainbow: Eat lots of fruits and veggies throughout the day. These germ fighting warriors are packed with antioxidants to keep your child going. This includes Vitamin C!

• Drink Water: We are not as thirsty in the winter because the temperature is cooler, but we still need to make sure we are drinking enough water.

• Sleep: Getting enough sleep allows the body to recharge and fight off illness.

• Vaccinate: Always make sure children are up to date with vaccinations by visiting a pediatrician.

• Dress to Impress: Dressing for the winter can be a challenge…but when you dress a child in layers, they can take clothing off one layer at a time if they get too warm from playing. Since most body heat is lost through the head, always be sure a hat covers the ears. The best test for winter boots is to make sure they are roomy enough to wiggle all toes.

Do you have any other tips for keeping children healthy in the winter?

Save