Back to School, Not Back to Germs: A Pediatrician’s Tips for Staying Healthy
- Dr. Ashley Loboda
- Aug 22
- 2 min read
As kids head back to school, excitement mixes with the reality of crowded classrooms, busy schedules, and—yes—more germs! It’s normal for children to catch a few colds each year, especially when they’re around lots of other kids. But there are steps you can take to help your child avoid illness and stay healthy this school year.
1. Practice Healthy Hand Hygiene
Handwashing (with soap!) is the #1 way to stop germs from spreading.
Remind your child to wash hands:
Before eating
After using the bathroom
After coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose
If soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer is a good backup.
2. Keep Up with Consistent Sleep
Well-rested bodies are better at fighting off illness. School-aged kids need about 9–12 hours of sleep per night. Start bedtime routines early to help your child’s immune system stay strong.
3. Pack Immune-Boosting Foods
A healthy diet can help defend against illness. Pack lunches and snacks that include fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Encourage water instead of sugary drinks to keep your child hydrated.
4. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccines
Vaccines protect your child (and others) from preventable illnesses. Back-to-school is the perfect time to make sure they are current on routine vaccines, including flu and COVID-19 if recommended for their age.
5. Teach “Cough and Sneeze Etiquette”
A simple tip: “Catch it with your elbow!” Kids should cover coughs and sneezes with their elbow or a tissue (and then wash hands). This helps keep germs from spreading in the classroom.
6. Know When to Stay Home
If your child has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s best to keep them home. Rest helps them recover more quickly and prevents spreading illness to classmates.
A Final Tip from Your Pediatrician:
Even with the best prevention, kids will still get sick sometimes—it’s part of how their immune systems learn and grow. But with healthy routines, strong hygiene habits, and a little planning, you can give your child the best chance for a happy, healthy school year.