While it is almost impossible to create a completely germ-free environment, there are multiple steps you can take to make your daycare clean and healthy for the kids. Some basic habits, such as washing hands regularly, have been shown to drastically reduce the prevalence of sickness in childcare facilities. Read on to learn what you can do to minimize the spread of germs at your daycare.
Why do Germs Spread So Rapidly in Daycares?
Children love to interact and play with friends and teachers. However, when a child crosses into the personal space of a sick playmate or teacher, it can become a problem. Furthermore, children's immune system is not as strong as adults, rendering them more vulnerable to contracting an illness from close contact with others. Caregivers must receive training suitable for a setting where children are being cared for.
Let's Fight Those Germs!
Wondering what you can do to minimize the spread of germs in your daycare center? Here are six suggestions to help you fight germs and create a clean, healthy, and happy environment at your daycare.
1. Encourage Frequent Hand Washing
Hand hygiene is an effective measure in preventing the spread of disease in daycare settings. However, it is important to note that research has shown faucet handles are among the dirtiest spots. Daycare providers can consider installing automatic faucets to reduce the transmission of viruses. You should also teach children to wash their hands properly. Consider using a Hand-washing Sequence Chart with Photos.
2. Teach Basic Hygiene Habits to the Kids
Infectious diseases like the flu and the common cold can be difficult to contain. However, educating children on hygienic practices can help. Encourage children to wash their hands and use hand sanitizer whenever possible. You should try to discourage your kids from putting their fingers in their mouths and touching their faces. Teach them to cover their mouths whenever they cough or sneeze. It is a good idea to put up Friendly Reminders and Class Rule Posters to remind the children of basic hygiene habits.
3. Always Remember to Sanitize the Diaper Room
If you want to avoid stomach and intestinal ailments, it's necessary to implement proper sanitation habits in the diaper changing areas. Use latex gloves and always wash your hands after changing diapers. Investing in diaper trash cans that can be rolled out by stomping on the lid is also an excellent way to prevent the spread of germs from dirty hands. To clean the area, use dilute bleach with 64 parts water to eliminate germs.
4. Educate Caregivers about Good Hygiene Practices
Ensure adequate caregiver training on the importance of good hygiene in preventing disease transmission. Knowing the basics of disease transmission and the signs and symptoms of illnesses can go a long way. The work is crucial to effectively introduce new hygiene standards into your institution. You can become a Standout Daycare Member to stay on top of your training program. It is also important to update your policies when required. For example, daycare providers should consider adding a Daycare Covid-19 Policy to their handbooks.
5. Practice Safe Food Storage & Preparation
Surfaces that are porous, fractured, or otherwise damaged may serve as harbors for bacteria and other pathogens. So, make sure any counters or tables used for preparing food are non-porous and in good shape. Maintaining a clean environment in these places can minimize the spread of disease. Moreover, never let children share their meals or drinks, and limit their access to serving dishes, utensils, and locations as much as possible.
6. Work with Parents
Get parents involved in teaching healthy habits to children. You should also ask the parents to fill out a Parents Survey Form to ensure you have all the information you need to provide proper care to children. In case a child feels under the weather, you should also have a Daycare Medication Authorization Log to track any medications administered. Finally, don't forget to inform the parents about illness, injury, or any medication administered. You can include this information in the Daycare Daily Report or tell them in person.
These six easy tips can help you minimize the spread of germs at your daycare and ensure a healthy environment for the kids as well as the employees!
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