Stay Healthy and Strong This Winter!
Cold Prevention Tips for School Students
Dear Students and Parents,
As winter approaches, cold and flu season is upon us. Keeping students healthy during the school year is essential, and with a few simple steps, we can all work together to reduce the spread of germs and stay well. Below are some helpful tips for preventing colds and staying healthy during the colder months.
1. Wash Hands Frequently
Washing hands regularly is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage students to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds:
- Before eating
- After coughing or sneezing
- After using the bathroom
- After touching shared surfaces (like desks, doorknobs, or computers)
If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
2. Cover Your Cough and Sneeze
Remind students to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing. This simple action can stop germs from spreading to others.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps keep the body strong and supports the immune system. Encourage students to carry a water bottle to school and drink throughout the day.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
A good night’s sleep is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Students should aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night, especially during the colder months when the body is working harder to stay healthy.
5. Dress in Layers
As the weather cools down, make sure students dress warmly in layers. Wearing layers allows them to adjust to changing temperatures both indoors and outdoors. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves for extra warmth!
6. Keep Personal Items Separate
Encourage students to avoid sharing personal items like water bottles, food, or school supplies. Germs can spread easily when items are shared, so it's best to keep personal belongings separate.
7. Boost Your Immune System with Healthy Foods
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps support the body’s immune system. Foods rich in vitamins C and D, such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, are especially important during cold season.
8. Disinfect Common Surfaces
Teachers and staff regularly disinfect common areas, like desks, to reduce the spread of germs. Students should also carry their own hand sanitizer for personal use that they keep in their book bag.
9. Know When to Stay Home
If a student is feeling sick, it’s important to stay home and rest. This helps prevent the spread of illness to other students and gives the body time to recover. If your child has a fever, is coughing a lot, or is feeling very tired, it’s best to keep them at home.
10. Stay Active
Physical activity helps boost the immune system and keeps the body strong. Encourage students to play outside or participate in physical activities, even if it’s cold. Just make sure they dress appropriately!
Bonus Tip: Flu Shots!
Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to prevent illness during the winter months. Check with your healthcare provider or local clinic about flu vaccination availability.
By following these simple cold prevention tips, we can help ensure that our students stay healthy and ready to learn throughout the school year. Let’s work together to stay healthy, stay active, and have a great winter!
Quick Recap:
- Wash hands frequently
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay hydrated and well-rested
- Eat healthy foods
- Dress warmly and stay active
- Stay home if you're sick!
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy!
Community Academy of Philadelphia Charter School
Email: tmuhammad@communityacademy.org
Website: https://www.communityacademy.org/
Location: 1100 E. Erie Avenue
Phone: 215-533-6700 1301
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/COMMUNITYACADEMYOFPHILADELPHIA/
Twitter: @CAPnewswire