It’s time to go back to school! Well, maybe not for you, but your kids at least! While your kids might not be like Billy Madison trying to prove to their dad that they aren’t a fool, for many parents, it can be a relief when the kids go back to school. However, many parents are concerned about the safety of their children and want to make sure they are taking every preventative measure to keep them safe.
Sprains, Strains, and Cuts
Most injuries occur on the playground. Sometimes children get cut when they play while running, or fall and twist their ankle in a game of tag. Even something as innocent as a papercut is possible (but that will probably occur in the classroom). Children should be taught to put pressure on the cut to slow the flow of blood until an adult can help them further. Proper stretching can help prevent sprains and strains. Children should know that if they hurt themselves, they need to stop putting pressure on the injury and get help from an adult.
Fire Safety
The children will probably learn this at school, but understanding the stop, drop, and roll procedure is important. They should also know where to go if there is a fire in the building. Make sure they understand the importance of listening to their teacher and following instructions.
CPR Safety
Kids can certainly learn CPR, but at what age they learn is different for every child. They should, first and foremost, know that they should not practice on one another. Some studies show that, while kids can learn CPR, they aren’t able to effectively complete chest compressions until their teens, when they are larger and stronger.
School Health
Put hundreds of kids in the same place, and germs are bound to spread. It’s hard to avoid catching a cold, but teach your child good sick practices. They should always cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and if they cover it with their hands, they need to wash them immediately. They shouldn’t touch their eyes and nose a lot when they are sick, and they should implement good handwashing practices. Be sure your child gets a flu vaccination each year.
Your child’s teachers will be teaching them important safety lessons at school, too. Making sure your child is a good listener will take them a long way.