Keeping kids healthy at school

One can't help but empathize with a child sick in bed with a cold. We've all felt the symptoms: an aching, stuffy head coupled with a drippy red nose rubbed raw from too many tissues and a dry cough that gets tickly when you try to lie down to rest. However, "although pretty unpleasant, catching a cold is not always a bad thing," says Dr. Nana Graves, a pediatrician of 26 years and co-owner of Clinique Enfant Medic in Dollard des Ormeaux, Que.

Dr. Graves explains that with each virus contracted, a child's body produces an army of antibodies to fight it. This boosts the child's immune system, making him or her healthier -- more resistant, in the long term. That said, no parent wants their child to be sick and missing school all the time, so here are some simple tips to help keep your kids healthy.

Reducing the spread
There is something simple that children can do to keep the number of viruses they pick up to a minimum -- frequently and properly washing their hands. Barbara Frost is co-owner of Greendale Bilingual Pre-K in Pierrefonds, Que. She has been caring for young children in a school setting for more than 20 years and can't stress enough how important it is to teach kids proper hand-washing techniques.

"Our classroom is set up with a double sink with running water, plenty of antibacterial soap and disposable towels," says Frost. One of the first activities of each school year is modelling the correct way to wash one's hands. "With young children it's best to show, not tell," continues Frost. The kids gather around the sink and she demonstrates -- first wet hands thoroughly and pump lots of soap. Rub hands until they are nice and foamy. Fingers should be spread apart and hands clasped together to get in between. Nails can be cleaned using a small, soft brush.

Another helpful tip to keep hands germ-free is to encourage kids to sneeze or cough into their forearm or sleeve. This also limits the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria.

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