5 Healthy habits  school going kids should hold on to  post-pandemic

5 Healthy habits  school going kids should hold on to  post-pandemic 

It’s school time again! The pandemic is over, and restrictions are eased. Professionals are returning to the workplace. Kids are returning to school. However, returning to normal can be daunting. We have picked up many healthy habits during the covid times to keep us healthy and improve our immunity to evade the covid infection. Some of them were washing hands, eating nutritious food, getting sufficient sleep, and frequent hand washing. These habits are essential to follow even after the pandemic. We can help school-going kids establish some of these habits even after joining the school because good health is a priority.

Vaccines

The best way to prevent infectious diseases is to get children vaccinated. Vaccines are the best way to prevent the spread of diseases. There was a steep drop in covid cases among children who got all the covid doses on time. The covid vaccine is approved for children older than six months. Schedule covid vaccination appointment with the pediatrician and ensure your child has all the immunizations, including seasonal flu.

Hand Washing 

Hand-washing for 20 seconds can prevent the spreading of the disease in the classroom or elsewhere. Teach them to practise hand washing properly after using the bathroom, before eating, and even after blowing their nose. Hand sanitizer is also an excellent option to kill germs causing covid.

Good sleep hygiene

Always ensure kids get enough sleep to maintain their physical and emotional health. Lack of sleep or missing sleep can lead to depression, poor concentration, obesity, injuries, and suicidal ideation. According to a meta-analysis, it has been found that children’s sleep, especially school-going kids, has decreased by approximately 1 hour.

Strictly avoid sharing food or drinks

Lunchbox sharing is always fun for kids. However, post-pandemic, it is not a good idea anymore. Instead, pack them with nutritious food and make sure they stay hydrated. Set a goal with them to drink at least 6-8 cups of water daily. Encourage them to eat healthy snacks.  

If they feel sick

When they feel sick or experience sore throat, headache, fever, or coughing, notify the school and get tested for COVID- 19. 

Encourage them to practice these healthy habits to stay healthy in this new normal. Listen to them. Ask them questions to know their feelings. Discuss good hygiene practices and reinforce the importance of healthy habits. Make them understand that they can talk with you or their teachers whenever they like.