Keeping Kids Healthy This Winter – Our Childcare Family’s Guide
Introduction
Winter is a magical season- snowflakes, cozy sweaters, and holiday cheer- but it also brings sniffles and sneezes. At our childcare center, we think of ourselves as a big family, and keeping everyone healthy is a team effort. Here are some practical (and fun!) ways we can work together to keep your little ones happy and healthy all season long.
Handwashing is Our Superpower
Handwashing is the simplest and most effective way to stop germs (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024). At school, we make it fun by singing songs while scrubbing. Please wash both your and your child’s hands upon entering their classroom and before leaving by the end of the day.
Try this at home: Sing “Happy Birthday” twice or create a silly “bubble song” with your child. Bonus points for foam beards!
When to Keep Kids Home
We know it’s tough to miss work, but if your child has a fever, vomiting, or other symptoms, please keep them home until they’re symptom-free for 24 hours (Aronson & Shope, 2019).
Tip for parents: Make a cozy “rest corner” with blankets, books, and a favorite stuffed animal so staying home feels special instead of boring.
Boost Immunity with Colorful Foods
Healthy eating helps fight off winter bugs. Think rainbow plates—fruits and veggies in every color (University of California, San Francisco, 2024).
Fun idea: Let your child be the “color chef” and pick a new color for dinner each night. Red night? Strawberries and peppers!
Vaccinations = Peace of Mind
Flu shots and other recommended vaccines are important for preventing illness (CDC, 2024).
Parent tip: After a doctor visit, celebrate with a sticker or a small treat. Positive reinforcement makes health habits easier.
Cleaning Can Be a Game
We sanitize toys and surfaces daily at the center (Aronson & Shope, 2019). At home, turn cleaning into a race- set a timer and see how many toys your child can help wipe down before it rings. Germ-fighting and giggles in one!
Dress for the Weather
Cold doesn’t cause illness, but being underdressed can stress the body (University of California, San Francisco, 2024).
Fun tip: Let your child choose a “winter superhero outfit”- layers that keep them warm and ready for adventure.
Closing Thoughts
We’re all in this together! If your child has been exposed to illness, let us know so we can take extra precautions. Our goal is to keep every child safe, healthy, and ready to enjoy all the winter fun.
References
Aronson, S. S., & Shope, T. R. (2019). Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools (5th ed.). American Academy of Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.1542/9781610023498
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, April 12). Core Infection Prevention and Control Practices for Safe Healthcare Delivery In All Settings. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/core-practices/references.html
University of California, San Francisco. (2024). Preventive Health and Safety in the Childcare Setting: A Curriculum for the Training of Child Care Providers (6th ed.). California Childcare Health Program. https://cchp.ucsf.edu/sites/g/files/tkssra181/f/Preventive%20Health%20and%20Sa fety%20Student%20Handbook%206th%20Edition%20May%2031%202024.pdf
