Germs & Kids: An Irresistable Attraction

You’ve taken your youngest child to the park; sit her in the sandbox, only to notice she begins to eat the sand. Perhaps your child is playing in the backyard with the family dog, and starts kissing the dog on the mouth. When it comes to germs and kids, an irresistible attraction is imminent. What can you do to avoid these two opposites from becoming attracted to each other?

• Teach your child to cover his or her mouth when coughing.
• Have them wash their hands frequently, especially before and after dinner, after using the bathroom, or touching animals.
• Keep your child’s nails clipped.
• Explain to them how they can pick up germs from virtually anywhere.
• Tell them not to put any objects in their mouth, such as toys or any foreign objects they may pick up.
• Stuffed animals collect dust; use caution when children play with them.
• If your child tells you her friend has lice, be sure to check your child’s hair to determine if she has been infected.
• Place hand wipes in your child’s lunchbox, so she can wash her hands before and after lunch.
• Tell your child not to share lunch with classmates.
• Show your child that touching or putting flowers or plants in their mouths is particularly dangerous.
• Ensure that sheets and pillowcases are washed regularly.
• Vacuum and dust your child’s room at least once a week.
• Make sure your child is properly vaccinated against all diseases.

Children have a wonderful curiosity; especially when presented with something new and shiny. Whenever buying a toy or stuffed animal, read the label to determine if there are caustic or toxic chemicals. While you can’t keep your child in a germ-free bubble, you can take certain precautions to ensure their attraction to germs are limited.