To help keep kids (and adults) healthy this winter, we turned to National Geographic Kids for tips even the youngest kids can understand and utilize to keep themselves as germ-free as possible.
- Wash your hands with soap and water after you sneeze, cough, or use the bathroom. Count to 20 or sing a couple of rounds of Row, Row, Row Your Boat while you scrub!
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
- Use a tissue when you need to sneeze or cough. Throw your tissues in the trash—don’t attempt a Guinness World Record for the biggest pile of dirty tissues!
- If you can’t stifle a cough or sneeze in a tissue quickly enough, sneeze into the crook of your elbow.
- Take a multi-vitamin every day.
- Don’t share water bottles or drinks. Your friend might not know he or she is sick and spread germs to you.
- Don’t share your hairbrush or hat. Little creatures like head lice could be hiding out and could be passed on from one person to another.
- Stay home from school, sports practice, and parties if you feel sick or have a fever.
- Wash your dishes with detergent and very warm water to kill germs.
- Stay away from family gatherings and reunions if you are sick or if one of your family members is sick. Grandma and Grandpa and younger cousins may have a stronger reaction to the illness than you do.
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet can help boost your immune system and help you fight off illnesses before they make you sick!
- Sleep eight or more hours every night. A strong body will help you fend off infections.
- Wash your hands after you high five, fist bump or shake someone’s hand.
- Don’t double dip into the salsa or dip.
- Get some fresh air and exercise every day. Outside air often carries fewer germs than stagnant indoor air.
- Avoid crowded places like movie theaters and shopping malls if the flu has been reported in your town.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. These areas are germ spreaders.
- Don’t share ear buds with friends. They can harbor loads of germs.
- Blow kisses to your sick friends and family instead of kisses and hugs.
- Get a flu shot if your doctor or school recommends it.
