With the arrival of fall comes pumpkin patches, cozy sweaters, and crisp afternoons outdoors. But it also brings something parents and caregivers are less excited about—cold and flu season. As children begin spending more time indoors and germs circulate more easily, it’s important to take steps to keep little ones healthy and strong. At Lyndon Learning Childcare, we partner with families to promote wellness and help prevent seasonal illnesses from disrupting routines.
Why Illness Spreads in Fall
As the weather cools, children spend more time in enclosed spaces where germs spread more easily. Viruses thrive in lower humidity, and children’s developing immune systems make them more susceptible to colds and flu. Group settings like childcare centers, where children share toys and play closely together, naturally increase the chance of exposure.
Building Strong Habits
The best defense against seasonal illness is building healthy daily habits. At Lyndon Learning, we teach children important practices like:
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Handwashing: Regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stop germs from spreading.
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Covering Coughs and Sneezes: Teaching children to cough or sneeze into their elbow helps protect their classmates.
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Not Sharing Personal Items: While we encourage sharing toys, items like cups, utensils, or blankets should remain personal to each child.
Nutrition and Rest
Healthy eating and proper rest are powerful tools for boosting immunity. Fall offers many seasonal foods rich in vitamins and nutrients—apples, squash, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins are all packed with health benefits. Encouraging children to eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated can make a big difference.
Sleep is equally important. Young children need anywhere from 10–14 hours of sleep depending on their age. At Lyndon Learning, our nap and rest times help support children’s natural rhythms, giving their bodies the chance to recharge.
Dressing for the Weather
Cooler mornings and warmer afternoons can make dressing tricky. Parents can help children stay comfortable (and healthy) by layering clothing. A cozy jacket for outdoor play, along with hats and gloves when needed, helps children enjoy fall weather without becoming chilled.
What Parents Can Do at Home
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Keep Sick Kids Home: While it can be tough with busy schedules, keeping a child home when they are sick helps protect other children and allows them to recover more quickly.
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Practice Good Hygiene Together: Model proper handwashing and encourage family-wide healthy habits.
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Get the Flu Shot: Talk with your child’s healthcare provider about seasonal vaccinations that may help reduce risk.
How We Support Wellness at Lyndon Learning
We maintain rigorous cleaning routines, sanitize toys and surfaces regularly, and encourage outdoor play to ensure fresh air circulation. Our teachers also work closely with parents to communicate if a child is feeling unwell or showing early signs of illness.
Final Thoughts
Fall is a time of joy and change, but it’s also a time when health takes center stage. By working together—families, children, and caregivers—we can reduce illness, build healthy habits, and keep children feeling their best. At Lyndon Learning Childcare, we believe that a healthy child is a happy learner, and we’re committed to supporting families every step of the way this season.