KidCheck Children's Check-In System Cold & Flu

Cold and flu season is fast approaching, and as the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” –  Benjamin Franklin

Before the seasonal sickies come knocking on the door of your children’s ministry, here are some practical steps you can take to be prepared.

Stock up on supplies: During cold and flu season you can never have enough tissues, hand soap, hand sanitizer, and paper towels. It’s best to be prepared with more supply than you think you’ll need.

Launch a communication plan on hand washing: The kids in your care, as cute as they might be, are germy. Encourage those visiting the restroom to wash vigorously with soap for 20 seconds or sing one rendition of the ABC’s.  Request that volunteers on bathroom detail make sure each child completes the recommended hand washing scenario before returning to the class room.

Set up sanitizer stations: Make sure there’s a bottle of hand sanitizer (with a minimum of 60% alcohol) in all public areas – this includes classrooms, bathrooms, and check-in areas. Include eye-catching signage with each bottle of sanitizer that reads “Be Alert, Take a Squirt” to remind people to use the sanitizer as they go by.

Disinfect: Wipe down the large surfaces that are heavily used such as craft tables, play areas, popular toys, and doorknobs after each service or use. Having an economy size bottle of Clorox wipes on hand will never go to waste.

Line Up additional Support: Staff up extra volunteers to cover for those who are unable to work. Ask volunteers to refrain from working if they’re not feeling well.

For additional tips and tricks on keeping your organization healthy during the cold and flu season, visit KidCheck’s  best practice article, 8 Ways to Keep your Children’s Organization Healthy during Flu Season.

Article Source: WebMD