Back To School Tips for Parents, Students & Teachers
for a Healthy Classroom

Below you will find a snapshot of some simple things that you can do as children go back to school that could help them have a healthier year.  If by following these tips it was the difference in helping your child miss one less day of school, what would that be worth to you and your family?

Grade/Elementary School

• Teach your child to sneeze, cough, or blow their nose into a clean tissue and then properly dispose of it.
• Try to keep children from touching or rubbing their eyes, nose and mouth.
  

Middle School

• Pack healthy snacks for your child.  Teach them to wash fruits and vegetables before consuming.
• Disinfect or sanitize frequently touched surfaces, like toys and other commonly shared items.
  

High School

• Remind your children to keep their lockers clean. Bringing home dirty gym clothes to wash, not keeping food in their lockers, etc.
• If allowed, encourage children to carry antiseptic wipes or hand sanitizer in case soap and water are not accessible. 
  

College

• Make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date, as residences are typically high-density living communities, in which germs spread easily.
• Urge children to take health into their own hands by being responsible for washing soiled laundry, keeping living areas clean, watching what they eat, wearing shower shoes, etc.
  

General Health Tips for All Ages

• Teach your children to wash hands often and thoroughly with soap and warm water for 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).
• Encourage children to practice good health habits: eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, avoid sharing food and drinks with others, etc.
• If possible, keep children home from school and other activities when they are sick.

For more information on how to keep your child healthy, please visit:
www.CDC.gov
www.StopGerms.org