Simple things still mean a lot

As the colder weather sets in, it’s important to remember that the simple things still mean a lot to keep us all healthy and happy this winter. 

We can all play our part to minimise the spread of germs and protect ourselves – and each other – from colds and bugs, meaning fewer sick days for everyone.  

Our little ones can help by remembering the simple things, too.

So, it’s important that we remind them how they do this…

Washing our hands to stay healthy

Our little ones touch all kinds of germs every day and there’s very little we can do to stop this. However, we can help protect them – and ourselves – by reminding them how important it is to wash their hands.

We worked with a team of scientists to find out what kinds of bacteria can be found in soft play centres, outdoor playgrounds, and children’s toys in the home.

We found many different types of bacteria and viruses on the items tested, including bacteria commonly found in poo, which just goes to show how important hand hygiene is when it comes to stopping the spread of illnesses.

Washing our hands regularly removes dirt, viruses and bacteria from them, meaning we reduce the spread of illnesses such as colds and flu.

When should your little ones wash their hands? 

Our children often know to wash their hands when they can see that they’re dirty. But, it’s important that we teach them how invisible germs can still be on their hands and that’s why we should wash them with warm water and soap, especially:

  • Before they eat  

  • After they’ve been to the toilet  

  • After they cough or sneeze  

  • After touching pets

  • After playing outside

Remember to dry their hands thoroughly with a clean towel.

How, and for how long, should your little ones wash their hands?

Everyone should wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

Covering our noses and mouths to help keep everyone well 

We can prevent passing on germs if we cover our noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing.  

When we sneeze or cough, we release tiny droplets that can spread germs and cause illnesses. These droplets can travel up to six feet and at speeds of up to 100mph. 

What’s the best way to cover our mouths?

If you don’t have a tissue to hand, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not your hand. Always throw the tissue in the bin after and wash your hands with soap and warm water.

If we teach children to do this, we can help keep colds and bugs away and all stay well this winter.  

Tips to encourage children to help stop the spread this winter

  • Set an example to younger children by ensuring they see you wash your hands before cooking, eating and after using the toilet.

  • If you have particularly vulnerable relatives, such as grandparents who help with childcare, encourage your children to be extra vigilant with their handwashing when around them.

  • If you’re visiting loved ones in hospital, make sure you are feeling well beforehand and that you and your children wash your hands thoroughly both before and after your visit.

Brought to you by your local council and supported by the NHS in Cheshire and Merseyside.

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Thank you for helping to keep us all well.