Tips for keeping your preschooler healthy after COVID-19

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARSCoV-2)1 did shake
up the world. We’ve all had to make some changes to keep ourselves and our little ones safe.

Even though things might look a little different than they used to, we can still continue with normal routines.

While children are as likely as adults to catch the virus that causes COVID-19, the most common symptoms in children may
include the following²: 

• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Headache
• Feeling very tired
• Fever
• Cough
• Nausea, vomiting or loose stools (diarrhoea)
• Chills
• Muscle aches and pain

With the virus still present and the world adapting to new ways of living, it's important to take steps to protect your child. As a parent, you might be wondering how to best support your little one's well-being in this new normal. 

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Adding colour on the plate

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to support your child's immune system. Add them to their
mealtimes, track their favorites and encourage them to eat plenty of them as you enjoy these types of foods together. 

Get moving and get outside in the sun 

Promote daily physical activity through play, such as running, jumping or dancing. Exercise boosts circulation, helping immune
cells move through the body more effectively and maintain overall health. Playing and being outside can also boost your
child’s mood and help the body produce Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function.³ 

Let them catch all those zzzs

Ensure your child gets enough sleep each night. Quality sleep is important for their immune function as the body repairs and strengthens itself during rest. 

Good hygiene practices

Teach your child proper handwashing techniques and the importance of covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing.
This messaging was consistent during the pandemic. Good hygiene helps reduce the spread of germs and limits their risk
of getting sick. Teach them to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the
bathroom and after being in public places.

Fun tip: Songs to sing to for kid’s washing their hands include ‘Baby Shark Dance’ (hand-washing version) by Pink Fong,
I’m a Hand-washer’ by Jack Hartmann Kids’ Music Channel and Shake It Off’ by Taylor Swift.⁴

And if that doesn’t do the trick, this video explains to children what soap and water do to germs. 

Water you waiting for?

Keep your child well hydrated by offering plenty of water throughout the day as staying hydrated helps maintain bodily functions.⁵

Incorporating these habits into your kiddo’s daily routine can help support their immunity and keep them feeling their best. 

Frequently asked questions

Need help or have a question about your child’s immunity? Simply browse and select from our list of the most popular
questions below to find the answer. 

References:

1. Lin L, Jiang X, Zhang Z, Huang S, Zhang Z. Fang Z, et al. Gastrointestinal symptoms of 95 cases with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Gut 2020;69:997-1001.
2. Mayo Clinic. COVID-19 in babies and in children. Available from: URL: https:/mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-in-babies-and-children/art-20484405.
3. CDC Nutrition. Vitamin D. Available from: https:/www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/vitamins-minerals/vitam…
4. Care.com. 22 hand-washing songs for kids that make it fun to get clean. Available from: URL: https:/www.care.com/c/hand-washing-songs.
5. Mayo Clinic Health System. Water: Essential for your body. Available from: URL: https:/www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/water…