A regular attendance routine is essential for your child’s well-being, learning, and long-term success. Consistent attendance helps children build a strong foundation for their education, develop good habits, and stay engaged with their peers and teachers.

However, we understand that cold and flu season, as well as community spread of viruses, can raise concerns about excused absences. Here are some tips to keep your child healthy and avoid unnecessary absences from school, including during the holiday season:

Encourage Good Hygiene and Boost Their Immune System:

• Teach your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Remind them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Ensure your child gets plenty of sleep, eats a balanced diet, and stays hydrated.
• Consider a daily multivitamin to support their immune health.

 

Monitor for Symptoms and Communicate with the School:

• Keep an eye out for symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. If your child is sick, keep them home to rest and recover.
• Inform the school of any absences and provide necessary documentation for excused absences.
• Stay in touch with your child’s teacher to keep up with missed work and assignments.

 

Maintain a Routine and Engage in Educational Activities while on break:

• Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, even during the holidays, to ensure your child is well-rested.
• Incorporate fun learning activities, such as reading holiday-themed books, playing educational games, or visiting museums.

 

Stay Active:

• Encourage physical activities like family walks, playing outside, or participating in winter sports to keep your child active and healthy.

 

Prepare for the Return to School:

• A few days before school resumes, start transitioning back to the school routine by adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times.
• Review any schoolwork or reading assignments to ensure your child is ready to return to learning.

 

By following these tips, you can help ensure your child stays healthy, enjoys the holiday season, and returns to school ready to learn. Let's work together to keep our children healthy and in school!

 

Find more resources to support daily attendance at school and important information for families; visit Every Day Counts in GCPS!