Stay Toasty, Stay Healthy: Autumn Wellness Tips

To keep our school community vibrant and healthy, here are a few simple ways to help your child stay well and prevent the spread of seasonal bugs.

 

While the drop in temperature is a great excuse for cozy beanies and hot chocolate, it’s also the time of year when sniffles and sneezes tend to make their way around our classrooms.

To keep our school community vibrant and healthy, here are a few simple ways to help your child stay well and prevent the spread of seasonal bugs.

 

Simple Habits for Strong Immunity

- Encourage your child to cough or sneeze into the crook of their elbow rather than their hands. This small habit is one of the most effective ways to stop germs from hitching a ride on door handles and shared equipment.

- Layering up is essential for Melbourne’s "four seasons in one day." Please ensure children have their school jumper and jacket for outdoor play. 

- We often forget to drink water when it’s cold, but staying hydrated keeps our mucous membranes (the body's first line of defense) working effectively. 

- The power of sleep. Winter is the body’s natural time to rest. Primary-aged children generally need between 9 and 11 hours of sleep to help their bodies repair and recharge.

 

Keeping Our Classrooms Clear

We all want our students in class, but sometimes the best way to support the school is to stay home. If your child is showing signs of a heavy cough, fever, or general lethargy, a day or two of rest at home can prevent a "domino effect" through the classroom.

 

A Quick Tip: Regular handwashing with soap for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing 'Happy Birthday' twice!) remains our gold standard for winter wellness.

 

Thank you for helping us keep our school a healthy, happy place to learn this winter. Stay warm, everyone!