February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. It raises awareness about the importance of good oral health in children. Cavities are the most common preventable oral health issue that affects children in the United States. Left untreated, cavities can lead to infection, pain, and difficulty eating. This can negatively affect a child’s school performance.
Here are a few good healthy habits to adopt for a healthy smile. Brush your teeth two times per day with toothpaste. Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months, as frayed bristles decrease their effectiveness. Floss (clean between teeth) daily. If your child brushes their teeth unattended, take time this month to check in on their brushing habits. Eat healthy food and limit sugary beverages and candy. Last, but not least, see your dentist at least 1 time per year.
The flu, Covid, an upper respiratory virus, and stomach virus are circulating at IKE and in the community. The best way to prevent this is hand washing. Encourage your child to practice good hand washing. The best course of action to take if you or your child becomes ill is to keep hydrated with clear fluids, take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever, aches and pains, and get plenty of rest. Stay home from school, work, and running errands. Many times people return to school/work too early. Please be aware of the district’s health policy and do not send your child to school if they have had a fever (99.6 or above), been vomiting, or had diarrhea. They should be free of these for 24 hours without the use of medication before returning to school.
Scoliosis screening for our 5th-grade girls will be on Tuesday, February 4th.
Be well,
Anna Robinette, RN
Character Strong
This month's focus is Honesty. One way to think about Honesty is "being truthful in what you say and do." Practicing Honesty helps strengthen our relationships and even reduces stress.
Honesty is 1 of 3 traits we will focus on throughout the year that helps students Be Well. Across grade levels, students will be developing skills like emotion regulation, positive self-talk, and stress management.
Hearts Apart
Fort Leavenworth Unified School District 207 offers a wonderful program we refer to as "Hearts Apart." Hearts Apart is designed to help students cope with the deployment of a parent. Your permission is required for your child to participate.
Hearts Apart provides students and families with a sense of community and belonging district wide. This is a great opportunity for spouses and their children to enjoy good food, relax, and enjoy the conversation and company of others. These events help children and their families understand that they are not alone in their experiences.
Sign up for Hearts Apart - Here
