Toddlers have a tendency to pass bacteria and viruses along pretty quickly.
Teaching children proper hygiene habits early on can help stop the spread of contagious diseases, from colds to pinkeye.
- When kids are sick, avoid sharing cups, glasses, forks or food.
- Teach them to sneeze and cough into their arm. Covering their mouth with their hands just spreads those germs.
- Show them how to blow their nose into a tissue, and then toss the tissue. It may take awhile, but teach toddlers that the back of their hand isn’t the place to wipe.
So what are some ways that you can keep the things in your toddler’s reach germ-free?
- Wipe surfaces down with soap and warm water.
- For really germy places, like diaper pails, garbage cans, and toilets, disinfect rather than just clean. Although cleaning washes germs away, disinfecting can kill them.
- Use clean sponges and rags. Sponges can harbor bacteria and then spread them around your kitchen and bathroom. Replace sponges regularly and toss cloths in the washing machine regularly.
- Be careful with household cleaning agents. Household cleaners and disinfectants can be pretty potent. Never spray them near your child. If a room smells of disinfectant, it’s a good idea to let it air out. Always keep cleaners out of your child’s reach.
