As the colors of the leaves change and the air becomes cooler during the Autumn season, many families experience a blend of anticipation and anxiety related to maintaining their children’s wellbeing. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of school routines and various outdoor adventures that come in the Fall, it’s important to remember health guidelines to foster your children’s health. Here are some helpful pointers from us and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on how you can support your kids in staying healthy this Fall season.
Make Handwashing Fun
It’s important to remind your children to wash their hands with antibacterial soap and water for about 20 seconds to kill germs. Washing your hands is like having a superhero power to fight off germs effectively. Kids can make it enjoyable by singing their song or timing themselves with a timer making the whole process stimulating and engaging. You can also use fun-scented soaps to encourage handwashing. Handwashing an effective method to keep those germs away from you and your loved ones!
Get Your Annual Flu Shot and COVID-19 Vaccination
Flu and COVID-19 outbreaks can be common in locations such as preschool settings. The CDC suggests that individuals older than six months receive a flu shot or COVID-19 vaccination (Pfizer or Moderna). It’s a simple measure to safeguard your little one and their peers from falling ill! Remember to consult with your healthcare provider to set up an appointment for the flu or COVID shot.
Layer Up To Stay Warm
Autumn weather can be so unpredictable at times! It’s a good idea to dress your child in layers to ensure they stay comfortable throughout the day. Having a coat handy along with a hat and gloves for those cold mornings is crucial for keeping warm, but a t-shirt underneath might also be required for the afternoon.
Get Energized With Quality Meals
Feeding your child a nutritious diet boosts their immune system. Think of it as giving them a power up! Make sure their meals are packed with fruits and vegetables along with grains and lean proteins to keep them strong and healthy. Since the sun isn’t out as long or as strong, the Autumn season calls for foods with vitamins, like Vitamin C and D. Consider including oranges and fortified cereals in their diet for an extra immunity boost.
Prioritize Getting Enough Sleep Each Night
Children require rest to maintain health and boost their immune systems against illnesses effectively. It’s advisable to establish a routine bedtime schedule for them, ensuring they receive enough sleep – ideally around 10 to 13 hours per night for preschool-aged kids. Here is a guide to how many hours of sleep your child needs depending on his or her age:
- Infants (0–3 months): 14–17 hours, including naps
- Infants (4–12 months: 12–16 hours, including naps
- Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours, including naps
- Preschool (3–5 years): 10–13 hours, including naps
- School-age (6–13 years): 9–12 hours
- Teens (14–17 years): 8–10 hours
Open Your Windows Or Use an Air Purifier
Cleaner air can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses. You can improve air quality by bringing in fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors. Keeping your windows open when you can is something you should do out of habit to also free your home of airborne cleaning chemicals! Keeping your windows open occasionally generally keeps your indoor air cleaner. However, be careful if you have seasonal allergies. If opening the windows and letting the outside air into your home is an issue, consider investing in an air purifier for your home to improve indoor air quality.
Stay Active
Getting active is important for the little ones, too, so why not inspire them to spend time moving their bodies? They can have fun playing outside in the crisp Autumn air. Also, taking a stroll in nature can help lift children’s spirits and make them feel more energized.
Remember Proper Etiquette
Teach your children the importance of using a tissue or their elbow to cover their mouths and noses when they cough or sneeze. It’s a small action that can have a big impact on stopping the spread of germs.
Monitor Any Symptoms That May Arise
When your child is unwell and experiencing symptoms such as having a temperature or cough, it’s advisable to let them stay at home for some rest and recuperation, as well as to prevent the spread of illness to their peers and teachers. For a full list of flu and COVID-19 symptoms, please visit The CDC’s website.
Conclusion
Remember to keep these suggestions in mind and stay informed about the updates from the CDC to help ensure your child enjoys a healthy and joyful Autumn season. After all, a bit of prevention can have a substantial impact! For more information, please visit The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.