

September is usually the start of the cold/flu season. Children seem to be the first to catch colds/flu. There are 5 steps they you can take to prevent the spread germs in your childcare business and they are as follows:

1. Wash Hands upon arrival

Germs are usually brought into your program. When children are required to wash their hands upon arrival, this is a sure way to prevent the spread of germs.

2. Sanitize childcare surfaces daily

During the cold/flu season, it is imperative that you disinfect door knob handles, light switches, food prep counter tops, tables and mouthed toys daily.

3. Review and issue a copy of your illness policy

Upon enrolling families, most childcare program issue a parent handbook or a copy of their sick policy. Providing parents with a copy of your sick policy, informs parents of your ill child guidelines.  Here is a sample sick child policy:

If your child develops any of the following symptoms such as: vomiting, diarrhea, pink eyes, chronic cough, fever (100 degrees or higher), he or she must be kept home until the child is symptom free for 24 hours, without medication. In the event your child develops any of the above symptoms while in our/my care, you will be called to pick-up your child. Until you arrive, your child will be isolated away from the other children.  ( In some cases your child may need a doctor statement to return to the program)

4. Provide Parents with cold/flu prevention resources

Create a parent resource file, where parents are able to browse through articles on how to prevent colds/flu. When children are well, this means that parents are able to go to work and less time at the doctor’s office. Clorox has a great resource page for parents…. Check it Out!

5.  Take care of yourself and if you have staff, encourage them to do the same.

Getting plenty of rest is a sure way to build up your immune system; drink plenty of water, wash your hands frequently, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.


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