The leaves are changing colours and the clouds have become heavier and darker with the threat of snow. Autumn is has arrived and it has brought with it the flu. Flu season is dreaded enough for adults, but when you work in a daycare it is even more of a threat. There are five simple rules to remember to keep that flu bug at bay.
RULE #1 - Wash Hands Often
It seems simple and obvious, but this little step can really make a difference. Provide child-friendly disinfectant rub for when they enter the daycare. Use a child-friendly tinted soap before and after they eat. Children will like the tint and you will be able to see the tinted bubbles showing that their whole hand has been washed.
RULE #2 - Send home children that have high fever
Be firm with this rule. Although, it will be inconvenient for parents to leave work to take their children home, it will help contain the spread of the illness and will allow the child to get the rest they need to get better soon.
RULE #3 - Have a disinfect bin to wash toys that have been in children's mouths
What goes in a child's mouth must go in the sink. Having a bin in the playroom that you and the older children can plunk dirty toys in will help cut down on the germs. Wash plastic toys in a dishwasher or in a disinfectant dish soap.
RULE #4 - Hire a Cleaning Service to Disinfect Your Daycare Area and Home
In addition to the regular disinfecting you will be doing, you will find that having a cleaning service come in once a week will prove to be invaluable. The bonus is that it gives you a break too.
RULE #5 - BE A CONSCIENTIOUS DIAPER CHANGER
Did you know that a lot of bacteria is spread through bowel movements? There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself and the other children from these germs. A) Wear gloves when you do every change B) Use a clean towel or changing blanket for each new change C) Keep all childrens' diapers, creams, and wipes separate.
You will likely not get through the season without at least one of your children getting sick; that you cannot control. But you can control the cleanliness of your own space and your children and parents will thank you for it.
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