How Primary Teachers Can Stay Healthy Around Germs
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Welcome to our yearlong series on Classroom Management by Design for Primary Teachers. Each week we will give you a new piece to the classroom management puzzle to have in place when you need it this school year. Think of it as a Lego kit just waiting to be built.
Classroom Management by Design for Primary Teachers: How Teachers Can Stay Healthy Around Germs: Practical Tips for a Germ-Free Classroom
Introduction:
As primary teachers, we know the joys of working with young learners come with some inevitable challenges—like germs. Between sticky hands, sneezes, and shared supplies, classrooms can feel like a breeding ground for illness. Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding a sick day; it’s about showing up for your students and yourself with energy and confidence.
In this blog post, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you stay healthy around all those germs. These tips are simple, effective, and designed to fit seamlessly into a teacher’s busy routine. Let’s dive in!
1. Build a Germ-Fighting Routine
A consistent hygiene routine is your first line of defense against classroom germs. Small daily habits can make a big difference in keeping sickness at bay.
Prioritize Handwashing
Handwashing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Teach your students to do the same, using songs like “Happy Birthday” or the ABCs to make it fun.
Keep Hand Sanitizer Handy
When soap and water aren’t available, use a high-quality hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Encourage students to use it regularly, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared objects.
Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces
Desks, door handles, and classroom supplies are hotspots for germs. Wipe them down daily with disinfectant wipes or sprays. Consider adding this task to your end-of-day routine to ensure a clean slate for the next morning.
2. Boost Your Immune System
Your immune system is your best ally in staying healthy. Supporting it with the right habits can help you fend off illnesses before they take hold.
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Stay Hydrated
Drinking water throughout the day keeps your body functioning at its best. Hydration helps flush out toxins, keeps energy levels steady, and supports your immune system. Keep a refillable water bottle at your desk to remind yourself to drink regularly.
Eat Immune-Boosting Foods
Fuel your body with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Foods like oranges, bell peppers, spinach, and almonds are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that strengthen your immune system. Don’t forget to add probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kombucha to promote gut health, which plays a significant role in immunity.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Rest is crucial for your body to repair and recharge. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your immune system strong. Struggling to wind down after a busy day? Try setting a bedtime routine that includes activities like reading or meditating to signal to your brain that it’s time to rest.
3. Teach and Model Good Hygiene Practices
Your students learn more from your actions than your words, so modeling good hygiene is key to creating a healthier classroom.
Sneeze and Cough Etiquette
Teach your students to sneeze or cough into their elbow instead of their hands. Demonstrate this often and encourage them to practice it daily. You can even make it a part of a morning routine or group activity.
No Sharing of Personal Items
Explain the importance of keeping items like water bottles, utensils, and hats personal. Use simple language and visuals to make this rule clear and memorable for younger students.
Post Visual Reminders
Bright, colorful posters about handwashing, sneezing etiquette, and general germ prevention can serve as constant reminders for both you and your students. Place them near sinks, in restrooms, and around shared spaces.
4. Create a Healthier Classroom Environment
The physical setup of your classroom can also impact your exposure to germs. Here’s how to make your environment work for you.
Ventilate the Room
Good airflow reduces the concentration of airborne germs. Open windows or use fans to keep air circulating. If your school allows, consider adding an air purifier to your classroom for added protection.
Organize Shared Supplies
Provide individual sets of frequently used supplies, like pencils and scissors, to reduce the need for sharing. If that’s not possible, clean shared items regularly. Use labeled bins for clean and used items so you can disinfect them at the end of the day.
Use Germ-Resistant Materials
When possible, opt for supplies and classroom materials that are easy to clean or naturally resistant to germs. Plastic bins, laminated posters, and vinyl seating are easier to sanitize than porous materials.
5. Practice Self-Care to Stay Resilient
Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding germs—it’s also about taking care of yourself so you’re better equipped to handle the demands of teaching.
Take Breaks
Teaching is a physically and mentally demanding job, so regular breaks are essential. Even five minutes to stretch, breathe, or step outside can make a big difference in reducing stress and boosting your energy.
Incorporate Movement
Physical activity supports your immune system and helps manage stress. You don’t need to commit to long workouts—simple activities like a brisk walk, yoga session, or even dancing with your students during transitions can help.
Practice Gratitude
A positive mindset can strengthen your resilience. Take a moment each day to reflect on something you’re grateful for, whether it’s a kind student interaction, a supportive colleague, or a small classroom success.
6. Know When to Rest
It’s tempting to push through when you’re feeling under the weather, but rest is critical to recovery. Taking a sick day when needed not only helps you heal faster but also prevents spreading germs to your students and colleagues.
Plan Ahead for Substitutes
Prepare a substitute folder with lesson plans and classroom routines so you can take a sick day without added stress.
Communicate with Parents
If you notice a trend of illnesses in your classroom, keep parents informed. Encourage them to keep their children home when they’re sick to minimize the spread of germs.
Conclusion
Staying healthy as a teacher requires a proactive approach to hygiene, immune support, and self-care. By building strong habits, modeling good practices for your students, and taking time for yourself, you can reduce your exposure to germs and create a thriving classroom environment.
Remember, your health is a priority—not just for you, but for the students who rely on your energy and guidance every day. Here’s to a healthy, happy school year!
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DID YOU KNOW…
Did you know I organize a FREE Facebook Group for Mastering Classroom Management? We are gearing up for our school year quarter sessions, so if you’re looking for a simple way to improve your classroom management join the already 200+ teachers that have signed up: Mastering Classroom Management Facebook Group
Your ebook GIFT: Empowering Primary Teachers: Effectively Manage Disruptive and Violent Behaviors in the Classroom
FINALLY…
If you enjoyed the tips in this post, you might also enjoy this series of videos Classroom Management by Design for Primary Teachers:
The Science of Movement in the Classroom
10 Ways to Use Movement for Better Classroom Behavior
Why Incorporating Movement Into the School Day Improves Classroom Management
The Importance of Identifying Gifts and Talents in Each Student
Back to Basics: Teaching Expectations and Routines in January
Staying Organized as a Primary Teacher in January
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Teach~Relax~Repeat
Lauren
