So here we are, another Covid-19 winter in Wisconsin. Do you find yourself thinking, ‘How am I going to keep my family safe and healthy all winter?’
According to Doreen Cadd, Operations Director of Ebenezer Child Care Centers with locations on Milwaukee’s southside and in downtown Milwaukee, Oak Creek, and West Allis/Wauwatosa, “Relax, you’ve got this. It’s most likely you’ve been doing much of what you can to keep viruses, bacteria, and infections to a minimum already. However, it never hurts to review some simple seasonal reminders.”
WEAR A MASK
The CDC recommends that, to slow the spread of many airborne contagions, everyone should wear a mask over their nose and mouth when in public places or at social events. Be sure to stay up-to-date on your local mask guidelines!
SANITIZE
According to the CDC, the viruses that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, and the flu can linger on surfaces. Because of this, it is important to disinfect frequently touched areas like doorknobs, counter tops, and tables on a regular basis. Most EPA registered household disinfectants will do the job. Check their labels.
IMMUNIZE
It goes without saying that flu and COVID shots exist for a reason. They have been scientifically proven to help prevent or eliminate symptoms. There are a lot of myths and inaccurate information about these vaccinations on social media. If you have questions, ask your doctor or children’s pediatrician about getting your family immunized.
WASH YOUR HANDS
The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and running water for a minimum of 20 seconds, making sure to scrub between fingers, under nails, and up toward the wrists.
Cadd says, “At our centers, we sing the song “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” three times while washing hands. It’s an easy way to get your child interested. Work up a lather under warm running water.”
STOCK UP ON TOOTHBRUSHES
Did you know that germs live on toothbrushes? That’s why it is so important to replace your family’s toothbrushes every three to four months, to always rinse off your toothbrush when you are done using it, and to dry it off as well. You should also never share your toothbrush.
Cadd also recommends that you wash your hands before you use your toothbrush, and that you only cover your toothbrush when you travel.
Ebenezer Child Care Centers is a not-for-profit, locally based agency committed to providing early childhood programs from the heart. The agency prides itself on being different from other childcare providers in that it offers a home-like atmosphere; individualized, nurturing care; and a structured curriculum that is virtues-based for every child’s developmental stage.
Every Ebenezer Child Care Center focuses on all aspects of a child’s development: cognitive, physical, emotional, and social. In addition to providing quality care, the agency also offers other educational programming all aimed at helping parents.
The agency has locations on Milwaukee’s southside and in downtown Milwaukee, Oak Creek, and West Allis/Wauwatosa. The agency’s main office is located at 1138 S. 108th Street, West Allis. For more information, please call 414-643-5070 or visit the agency’s website at www.ebenezerchildcare.com.
