Fall is here and winter is right around the corner, and with them come the cold and flu season. This is the time of year that good hygiene becomes invaluable, especially to childcare providers. Children are germ factories and many are simply to young to know or understand good hygiene habits. That is why it is so important for teachers and staff to ensure their students have a clean environment to learn and have fun in.
Making sure all cleaning supplies are well stocked is the first step in keeping children healthy. After all, if you don't have the proper tools for the job, the job won’t get done.
Cleaning regularly is also very important. Be sure to use disinfectant wipes and sprays to clean all surfaces and items that children might come in contact with at least once a day. Also, make sure all food preparation surfaces are cleaned regularly as well as restroom facilities.
Ensure all children and staff wash their hands regularly and thoroughly to prevent the spread of microbes. Make sure all sinks have full liquid soap dispensers, and paper towels. Using liquid soap and paper towels is the best way to ensure hand washing is effective, and children don't share germs by sharing towels, according to Healthychildren.org. Also, do not allow children to wash their hands at sinks used for food preparation or dish cleaning, as these are some of the most contaminated places in any facility or home.
Also…don't forget that a key part of keeping children healthy is teaching them good hygiene early. A bulletin board set is great for just that. Make good hygiene a regular part of your students day and they will be the happiest and healthiest they can be.
Sources:http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/prevention/pages/Prevention-In-Child-Care-or-School.aspx ;http://www.globalhealthychildcare.dreamhosters.com/steps-to-preventing-illness/
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