Advances in Mental Health

When kids go back to school, they are more susceptible to catching the flu and other viruses. Because kids' immune systems aren't that strong yet, the flu can put them out of commission for a while. As a parent, you have a duty to help your little one stay healthy. Here are five ways to help your child avoid the flu:

Teach Your Child Proper Hand Hygiene

Regular hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the flu. However, not all children wash their hands as thoroughly as they should. Teach your child to scrub his hands with soap and lukewarm water for at least 20 seconds. Get your kid in the habit of washing his hands after he uses the bathroom and before he eats.

Pack Nutritious Foods in Your Child's Lunchbox

If you want your child to be able to fight off the flu, you have to feed him the right foods. When you are preparing his lunch, pack nutritious foods such as carrots, oranges, apples and turkey sandwiches. These foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that will keep your kid healthy.

Get Your Child to Exercise

Regular physical activity will not just help your child maintain a healthy weight; it will also strengthen his immune system and fight the flu. Encourage your kid to go for walks, join sports in school and play outside with his friends.

Tell Your Child Not to Share Food or Drinks

When your child eats lunch at school, he may be tempted to trade his food with other kids. Doing this, however, can increase your child's risk of getting sick. Tell him to never share his food or drinks with others children, even if they don't appear sick.

Make Sure Your Child Gets Plenty of Sleep

Adequate rest is especially important for children, because their bodies are still growing and developing. If your child doesn't sleep enough hours at night, he will be more susceptible to contracting illnesses. Make sure your child goes to bed at a decent hour and gets at least 8-10 hours of sleep a night.

If you follow these helpful tips, your child will be less likely to catch the flu. However, if your little one still contracts this sickness, keep him in bed and make sure he drinks plenty of fluids. If he doesn't get better in a few days, take him to see a doctor at a childrens clinic.