Cleanliness plays a crucial role in promoting the health and development of young children, especially when they start attending school and childcare facilities. Illnesses among preschoolers can increase through neglected hygiene practices. Poor environmental cleanliness coupled with inadequate hand hygiene practices and improper food handling methods are all factors that contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.
When children get sick, it means time off work, logistical childcare issues, missed school days, and other disruptions. Furthermore, it creates a cycle of sickness affecting other kids in school, as well as their family members and teachers. There are also young children with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions who face additional exposure risks through their and others’ hygiene habits.
Children’s early learning of habits and behaviours often continues throughout their adult life. So, developing good practices from an early age helps establish a solid foundation. We put together four essential tips that may help promote sparkling attitudes toward hygiene habits.
1. Practice Hand Hygiene
Ensure your little one becomes a hand-washing maestro by showing them the art of lathering up with soap and water. Encourage the ritual of washing hands for a 20-second performance, making it a fun but necessary routine during the day; for example, before mealtimes and after using the restroom.
2. Set the Example
Be the inspiration for hygiene through your own exemplary habits. When children observe consistent practices, such as disposing of used tissues properly, regular hand-washing and covering the mouth and nose during a cough or sneeze, they absorb this information and replicate the behaviour.
3. Shape Healthy Lifestyles
Embrace an active lifestyle that nourishes your child’s growth and development. Get them to explore the joys of physical play and create a balance with the use of screen time. We can promote mindful eating and minimise processed foods, sugary treats, and drinks by offering an array of colourful and delightful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and good fats.
4. Visit the Family Doctor
Establish a rhythm of routine health check-ups with your paediatrician or family doctor. They will monitor the child’s growth and development and offer a safe space to address any health concerns or questions you may have to ensure optimal health. Stay up to date with essential childhood immunisations and keep their medical records current. These records may need to be shared with their school, especially when enrolling at a new school.
Hygiene for Lifelong Wellness
Promoting healthy habits is vital for the well-being and happiness of our little ones. By embracing healthy habits, parents, schools, and childcare facilities can foster a healthier and safer haven for children to thrive. New Life Childcare in Bukit Panjang incorporates sound hygiene practices, so we can nurture our preschoolers’ understanding and appreciation of self-care and help stop the spread of germs!
