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BACK TO SCHOOL
It is that time of the year once again, and children are
back to school. How exciting it is to see them proceed onto the next class,
make new friends and grow. We also get to catch some quiet in the house for a
few hours. This is however the time they catch the flu, stomach bugs and other
minor ailments the most. Let’s look at how we can prevent this and also improve
their immunity;
MAINTAIN HAND HYGIENE
Children’s hands are carriers for a lot of dirt and germs
which they get as they play outside, exchange toys, pens, rulers etc. At times,
they may touch their food with unwashed hands or even have their hands in their
mouths. Frequently remind them to wash their hands with soap and water as
frequently as possible; after playing outside, before eating, after visiting
the toilet or any other time they are visibly dirty.
You can also pack an alcohol based sanitizer in their bags.
However, if the hands are visibly dirty, hands have to be washed with soap and
water.
ENSURE A HEALTHY DIET
We are what we eat. A healthy, balanced diet is essential
for good health. Ensure that children get their daily dietary requirements,
including greens and fruits. A meal plan could help in meal prepping and ensure
that all food groups are covered on a daily basis. Snack are tasty, but should be consumed in
moderation and not affect consumption of main meals.
HYDRATION
Keeping children hydrated with water, milk enhances brain
function, improves digestion and aids fatigue. Try to eliminate sugary fizzy
drinks and avoid caffeine in children.
SLEEP AND REST
Sleep helps in boosting immunity, and children require up to
10 hours of sleep a night to be well rested. Maintain regular sleep timings so
that they get adequate sleep, and also to avoid those morning struggles we all
know of. Afternoon naps are encouraged in younger children to give them an
energy boost to finish the day.
DEWORM
We all advocate hygiene, but know very well that dirty hands
and pens will end up in the mouth one way or another. Deworm children every
three months to get rid of intestinal parasites that will cause stomach problems.
For consistency, you could decide that will be done at the beginning of school
terms.
IMMUNE BOOSTERS
An extra immunity boost couldn’t hurt anyone. In addition to
healthy habits, immune boosters like vitamin C help to prevent colds and flu,
and hasten the recovery time should one catch it. Available in form of
delicious chewable tablets or effervescent tablets that you dissolve in water
and drink, a once daily dose is enough to keep the doctor away!
CONTROL STRESS
Adjusting to a new class and probably new teachers and
activities could be a bit too much to take in. Take time to ask how they are
doing and listen to their worries or struggles. Find solutions together and
suggest ways to help them relax when overwhelmed like drawing, coloring, games.
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