Here is some important information to help you deal with flu season:

• Spread the word about germs.  Because germs are invisible, it’s difficult for children to understand how dangerous a cough or sneeze can be.  Be sure to stress to them the importance of washing their hands, using lots of soap and water and scrubbing until there are bubbles – before meals and snacks and after coughing, sneezing or using a tissue.  

• Sing the birthday song.  Teach your child to wash their hands for as long as it takes to sing the entire “Happy Birthday” song.  

• There’s a place to cough.  Certainly, children need to learn to always cover their mouths when they cough, but one way to prevent the spread of germs is to have the cough into their sleeves, not their hands.

• Keeps hands away from eyes, nose and mouth.  Children sometimes absentmindedly put their fingers in their mouths or nose or rub their eyes.  Help your kids keep their hands away from “germy” areas – eyes, nose and face.

• Tissue talk.  “Used” tissues are full of germs.  Teach your children to immediately put used tissues in the trash and then wash their hands.

SOURCE: Adapted from NAESP Report to Parents brochure.