5 Smart Ways to Avoid Back-to-School Germs & Keep Kids Healthy
There’s a lot to look forward to during the back-to-school season: new supplies, teachers, friends, and sports. But unfortunately, there’s also an increase in germ exposure. This year, get smart and use these simple tips and tricks to help your kids avoid those nasty back-to-school germs.
Quick Takeaways: How to Avoid Back-to-School Germs
- Teach kids proper handwashing techniques
- Adopt healthy habits & behaviors that reduce germ spread
- Get kids on a healthy sleep routine well before school starts
- Be ready to respond quickly if kids get sick
- Use a natural disinfectant on school gear every day
Top 5 Tips for Dealing With Back-to-School Germs
1. Handwashing for the Win!
Handwashing is the number one way to cut down on the spread of germs according to the Centers for Disease Control. The problem? Most of us — especially kids — aren’t doing it right. Teach your kids how to wash their hands effectively: warm water & soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds (sing “Happy Birthday” twice!) at key times:
- Before & after prepping food
- After eating or drinking
- After using the restroom
- After touching animals or animal waste
- After coughing or sneezing
- After caring for someone sick
- After treating a cut or wound
- After touching garbage
2. Tweak Some Behaviors
Making small changes to habits can help stop germs from spreading. Encourage kids to:
- Sneeze “like a vampire” — into their elbow instead of hands
- Let water fountains run for a few seconds before drinking (they can harbor bacteria)
- Avoid sharing lunches, drinks, or snacks — to prevent spreading germs (and allergens!)
- Forget the “5-second rule” — don’t eat food that’s fallen on the floor (it’s a myth)
3. Start the Year as Healthy as Possible
Prepare before exposure ramps up! Get kids back on a consistent sleep routine, because sleep boosts immunity. Limit screens & sugar before bed, and aim for an earlier bedtime starting at least a week before school – 2 weeks is even better. Check medications, supplements & vitamins and make sure they’re up-to-date and taken as directed.
4. Add School Numbers to Your Contacts
If your child does get sick, make sure you can recognize the school’s number when they call by saving the nurse & admin office numbers. Getting sick kids home quickly — and keeping them there — helps reduce germs at school.
5. Use a Natural Disinfectant on School Gear
Backpacks and lunchboxes spend time on gym, bathroom, and bus floors — and can become a germ-filled petri dish. When kids get home, spray their gear with a natural disinfectant to tackle germs.
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