Cold ComfortAs the winter cold continues, runny nose, cough, sore throat and fever of a cold or flu are hard to escape; especially for young children who are more susceptible to sharing germs in community environments.
The common cold and the flu are both respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms. So how can you differentiate between the two? Common cold symptoms* include:| Runny or blocked nose | Sore throat | | Red, watery eyes | Sneezing | | Coughing | Mild fever | | Headache | Tiredness |
Flu symptoms* are similar to a cold, but are usually more severe and can generally include:| High fevers | Shivering attacks | | Aching muscles and joints | Weakness | | Lethargy | Loss of appetite | | Nausea | Vomiting |
*These are general cold and flu symptoms only. Please see your doctor for more advice. Winter care- Avoid spreading the germs by keeping your child at home if they are suffering from cold or flu like symptoms.
- Teach your child to sneeze or cough into a tissue then put it into a bin.
- Wash hands frequently – soap and warm water will kill even the strongest viruses.
- Do not share drinks.
- Cough medicines are not recommended.
Playgroup hygieneChildren learn a great deal by copying the behaviour of their parents and carers. So the best way to teach children about good hygiene habits is to effectively role-model. Most hygiene at Playgroup is common sense and follows the same pattern as hygiene at home and elsewhere. Check that your Playgroup has the appropriate facilities, procedures and equipment for... - Washing hands before eating or handling food, after changing a nappy or going to the toilet.
- Mopping up a variety of kitchen spills, paint and glue spills, etc, with different cloths or sponges.
- Washing children’s hands before eating.
- Safe disposal of used tissues, soiled cloths and nappies.
- Cleaning up of blood, vomit and faeces with disposable gloves and tissues or paper towels.
- Cleaning and disinfecting all kitchen, toilet and bathroom areas regularly. Is someone responsible for cleaning materials and replacing as necessary? Is this part of your discussions with the Venue Manager?
- Providing clean tea towels, hand towels, paper towels and sponges etc.
- Adequate washing and storing of crockery, cutlery, plastic bowls etc.
- Each child to have an individual plate or bowl at snack time and serving food with tongs.
- Regulating the temperature in the venue so children do not get too hot and fresh air can circulate.
- Sweeping, mopping and vacuuming after every session.
It is worthwhile clarifying with the centre or hall where your Playgroup meets about their expectations of cleaning up and what they will provide, for example, paper towels, and what the Playgroup will need to bring with them.
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