School jaane wale bachche ko healthy rakhna mushkil nahi hai - sirf consistent habits chahiye! School-going children are exposed to many germs and infections, but with good hygiene practices, proper nutrition, adequate neend (sleep), and mental health support, most illnesses can be prevented or managed easily. This guide covers practical tips that actually work for busy Indian families.
Watch: How to Know When Your Baby Is Sleepy 😴 | Baby Sleep Cues Every Parent Should Know
Good news:
What still matters:
Essential vaccines for school-age children:
| Vaccine | Schedule | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | As per current government/IAP guidelines | Boosters when recommended |
| Flu (Influenza) | Annually (before winter - Oct/Nov) | Especially important if child has asthma |
| Typhoid | As per schedule | Important in India |
| Hepatitis A & B | Check if completed | Often missed |
| MMR, DPT boosters | Check schedule | Don't skip boosters |
Check with pediatrician for personalized recommendations based on child's age and health.
Handwashing (haath dhona) - THE most important habit!
When to wash:
Proper technique (sahi tarika):
When soap unavailable: Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (60% alcohol)
Teach children:
When to stay home from school:
Return to school when:
Nutrition for immunity:
| Nutrient | Indian Sources | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | Amla, orange, nimbu, guava, kiwi | Immune support |
| Vitamin D | Dhoop (sunlight), eggs, fortified milk | Infection fighting |
| Zinc | Nuts, seeds, whole grains, pumpkin seeds | Immune function |
| Protein | Dal, paneer, eggs, chicken, fish | Building blocks |
| Probiotics | Dahi (curd), chaas (buttermilk) | Gut health |
Daily healthy habits:
Sleep requirements by age:
| Age | Hours Needed |
|---|---|
| 6-12 years | 9-12 hours |
| 13-18 years | 8-10 hours |
Why it matters:
What to do:
Warning signs to notice:
At home:
For school:
Overall approach:
| Mistake | Why It's Harmful | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Over-sanitizing everything | Can harm natural immunity | Normal cleanliness is enough |
| Keeping child isolated | Affects social development, immunity | Balance caution with normal life |
| Worrying about every cold | Creates anxiety in child | Most illnesses are normal, mild |
| Ignoring mental health | Can lead to bigger issues | Regular emotional check-ins |
| Junk food for convenience | Weakens immunity | Plan healthy meals/snacks |
| Skipping regular vaccinations | Increases disease risk | Keep all vaccines updated |
| Irregular sleep schedule | Affects immunity and learning | Consistent neend routine |
The goal is not to avoid all illness but to:
Remember: Some mild illness is NORMAL and actually helps build immunity! 6-8 colds per year for younger children is completely normal.
A: Some illness (6-8 colds per year) is COMPLETELY NORMAL, especially for younger school children! Their immune system is learning and building strength through exposure. Concerning: if illness is very frequent (every 2-3 weeks), severe, or affecting growth/school performance. Focus on: good nutrition, adequate neend (9-12 hours for 6-12 year olds), hygiene habits. See doctor if worried about frequency or severity.
A: Recommended annually, especially for: children with asthma, diabetes, or chronic conditions, children under 5, and children in crowded settings like hostels. Flu vaccine is updated each year for new strains. Not mandatory but helpful in reducing illness severity, missed school days, and spread to younger siblings/grandparents. Best given September-November before flu season. Consult pediatrician.
A: Not strictly necessary unless child is visibly dirty or sweaty after sports. HAND WASHING is most important - this is what prevents most infections. Can change clothes and wash hands/face when coming home. Complete daily bath can be at any convenient time. Over-bathing can dry skin. Focus on hands - that's where most germs transfer!
A: Balanced diet (all food groups, not supplements), adequate neend (based on age - 9-12 hours for primary school), regular physical activity and outdoor time (dhoop = vitamin D), limited screen time, manage stress, keep vaccines updated, limit sugar and processed junk food. There's NO magic "immunity booster" supplement for healthy children with balanced diet. Consistent healthy lifestyle matters more than any product!
A: Watch for: sudden change in neend patterns (bahut sona ya kam sona), loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in eating, withdrawing from friends/family, frequent physical complaints (sir dard, pet dard) without cause, excessive worry. Regular conversations help - ask open questions about school, friends, feelings. If concerns persist 2+ weeks or affecting school/daily life, consult pediatrician or counselor. Early support helps!
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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