A guide to keeping kids healthy this school year for parents and carers

https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/08/28/a-guide-to-keeping-kids-healthy-this-school-year-for-parents-and-carers/ As children head back to school and we move closer to winter, now is a good time to familiarise ourselves with some of the common illnesses that can cause disruption to children’s time in school during the colder months. This blog post covers some of the seasonal illnesses that tend to rise during autumn and winter, as well as steps you can take now and throughout the coming term to help protect your family, including from cold weather. We’ll explore available vaccinations, how to recognise symptoms of common illnesses, and how to make informed decisions on whether a sick student is well enough to attend school or college. Teach good hygiene habits Good hygiene stops infections from spreading, which means less disrupted learning time. Teach your child to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, use tissues for coughs and sneezes, and stay away from others when sick. Letting in fresh air can also reduce the spread of airborne viruses. Our e-bug resources for all ages can help you to explain and discuss hygiene habits – and why they are important – to your child ...