Germs, Immunity & the Return to School: Helping Kids Stay Healthy This School Year
As backpacks come out of storage and school routines begin again, so does something else—the return of classroom germs.
The first few weeks of school often bring an increase in colds, stomach bugs, strep throat, and other common illnesses as children spend more time indoors and in close contact with classmates. While it's impossible to avoid every germ, there are simple habits that can help strengthen your child's immune system and reduce the spread of illness.
Here's what every family should know before heading back to school.
Why Kids Seem to Get Sick More Often After Summer
During the summer, children typically spend more time outdoors and in smaller groups. Once school starts, they're sharing classrooms, lunch tables, playground equipment, and school supplies with dozens of other students every day.
Exposure to new viruses is a normal part of childhood and helps the immune system learn how to recognize and fight infections over time. While frequent illnesses can be frustrating, they're often a normal part of growing up—especially for younger children.
When Should Your Child Stay Home from School?
One of the biggest questions parents face is deciding when a child is too sick for school.
As a general guideline, children should stay home if they have:
A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours
A persistent cough that interferes with learning or breathing
Symptoms that make it difficult to participate in normal activities
A contagious illness that requires staying home based on your healthcare provider's recommendations
Children should generally be fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning to school.
Keeping sick children home helps them recover more quickly while reducing the spread of illness to classmates and teachers.
Handwashing: The Best Defense Against Germs
Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections.
Teach children to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to scrub:
Between fingers
Under fingernails
The backs of hands
Around thumbs
Wrists
Encourage handwashing:
Before eating
After using the bathroom
After coughing, sneezing, or blowing their nose
After recess
When arriving home from school
If soap and water aren't available, hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol is a good alternative.
Don't Forget About Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important—and most overlooked—parts of a healthy immune system.
When children don't get enough sleep, their bodies have a harder time fighting off infections, and they may struggle with focus, mood, and learning.
Recommended sleep by age:
Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours
School-age children (6–12 years): 9–12 hours
Teenagers (13–18 years): 8–10 hours
Tips for Better Sleep Hygiene
A consistent bedtime routine can make a big difference during the school year.
Try to:
Keep bedtime and wake-up times consistent—even on weekends.
Turn off screens at least one hour before bed.
Create a cool, quiet, and dark sleeping environment.
Avoid caffeine later in the day.
Encourage relaxing activities like reading or listening to calming music before bedtime.
Starting these routines a week or two before school begins can make the transition much smoother.
Support a Healthy Immune System Every Day
While there's no magic supplement that prevents illness, healthy daily habits give children's immune systems the support they need.
Focus on:
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Staying hydrated throughout the day
Getting regular physical activity
Prioritizing quality sleep
Practicing good hand hygiene
Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Most childhood illnesses improve with rest, fluids, and time. However, contact your pediatrician if your child:
Has difficulty breathing
Has a fever that persists or returns after improving
Appears unusually sleepy or difficult to wake
Shows signs of dehydration
Has symptoms that worsen instead of improving
Has severe pain or other concerning symptoms
When in doubt, it's always appropriate to reach out to your child's healthcare provider for guidance.
A Healthy Start to the School Year
Returning to school is an exciting milestone filled with learning, friendships, and new experiences. While germs are simply part of the school environment, healthy habits can make a meaningful difference.
Teaching children when to wash their hands, ensuring they get enough sleep, and knowing when to stay home when they're sick helps protect not only your family but the entire school community.
Here's to a healthy, happy, and successful school year!
