Every parent thinks that there is nothing more important than seeing your little one safe and healthy at all times. As they embark on their school journey, it is important for mamas and papas to know what they can do to further protect their child from possible viruses or illnesses.
Dr. Lianne Racoma, a pediatrician and a mother of three, imparted her knowledge and expertise on how to keep children healthy as they attend school. During an edamama Connect event, she addressed a couple of queries from parents. Below are notable pieces of advice and insights from Dr. Racoma:
1. Boosting Immunity in Active and Prone to Illness Kids
Dr. Racoma expressed that children will develop an average of six (6) up to eight (8) respiratory infections per year. Some can also get episodes of gastrointestinal infection, but experiencing such is normal. To boost the immunity of kids who are seen to be active yet still prone to sickness, parents can provide their little ones with Vitamin C, D, Zinc, B6, and probiotics. It must be noted that these can be achieved with a healthy and well-balanced diet.
2. Supplements for Active Pre-Teens
For pre-teens who are actively engaged with their communities or in school, their immune system should be strong to power through their activities. A well-balanced meal, which contains enough fruits and vegetables, can provide nutrients such as Vitamins C, D, Zinc, and B6 that will aid in enhancing one’s immune system. However, for the case of pre-teens who are rapidly growing, they can take folate and iron supplements for a short time. Adding to this would be having a source of calcium and Vitamin D, may it be from low-fat milk, other dairy products, or also supplements.
3. Wearing of Face Masks to School
It is optional for kids to use face masks in school. However, COVID-19 is far from over. Parents can encourage their children to still wear masks as this can help in providing an extra layer of protection from potential illnesses, mostly when they get exposed to sick schoolmates.
4. Children Experiencing Nosebleed at School
There are some kids that experience nosebleeding. As explained by Dr. Racoma, these are caused by the hot and low humid air (dry air) that ruptures the blood vessels present in the nose. Vitamins cannot actually prevent this from happening, but what parents and their little ones can do is to avoid places that are very hot. In addition, your little one should avoid manipulating or playing their nose. Another action that can be done is to have your child visit their pediatrician and check if they have allergic rhinitis since it is a risk for frequent nosebleeding.
5. Parental Precautions for a Healthier School Experience
Though Vitamin C is a really good nutrient for your child’s immune system, Dr. Racoma mentions that it is not enough to prevent children from all infections. Parents should take extra precautions to help in making them healthier and safer. One would be keeping the vaccinations of your little one updated. Another is to emphasize the importance of properly and frequently washing their hands. For hygienic purposes, it's best for your child to have their own utensils and cups to use. Moreover, Dr. Racoma suggests giving their pediatrician a visit to have an overall assessment before attending school.
With enough insights from Dr. Racoma, mamas and papas are set to provide the right support in boosting their child’s immune system. These pieces of professional advice can help parents make better decisions moving forward as their little one heads towards school.
