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Back-to-School Germs Are Inevitable: Here’s How to Help Keep Your Child Healthy

August 4, 2026 | Reading Time: 4 minutes
Dr. Kym Middleton, Pediatric Hospitalist

New teachers, new friends and new classrooms also mean new germs.

It’s common for children to catch more colds and other viruses during the first few weeks of school as they’re exposed to classmates and spend more time indoors together. While it’s impossible to prevent every illness, parents can take a few simple steps to help lower their child’s risk.

“Every school year, we see an increase in common childhood illnesses as kids return to the classroom,” said Dr. Kym Middleton, pediatric hospitalist at Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children. “The good news is that healthy habits at home can make a big difference.”

“Parents don’t have to eliminate every germ. The goal is to build healthy routines that help children stay well and recover quickly when they do get sick,” Dr. Middleton explained.

Prioritize sleep and healthy routines
One of the best ways to support your child’s immune system is by making sure they get enough sleep.

Children who are well rested are better equipped to fight off infections, regulate their emotions and stay focused in the classroom. If bedtime drifted later over the summer, begin adjusting your child’s schedule several days before school starts.

Dr. Middleton also recommends practicing the morning routine before the first day of school and turning off phones, tablets and other electronics at least one hour before bedtime. Starting each day with a healthy breakfast can also help children stay energized and ready to learn.

Keep everyday items clean
Backpacks, lunchboxes, reusable water bottles and electronic devices can collect germs throughout the school week.

Wipe down frequently touched items regularly, wash lunchboxes and water bottles daily, and remind children not to share drinks, utensils or water bottles with classmates.

Cindee Lewis pictured with her family. She and her husband have five children, and are now proud grandparents to 21 grandchildren.

Wash hands the right way
“Children learn by watching the adults around them. When parents make handwashing a daily habit, they’re helping build healthy routines that can last a lifetime.”

Handwashing remains one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs.

Teach children to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom and after coughing or sneezing. Young children often learn by watching the adults around them, so make proper hand hygiene a family habit. If soap and water aren’t available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a good alternative for older children.

Fuel healthy immune systems
Healthy meals, regular physical activity and staying hydrated all help support a child’s overall health.

Pack balanced lunches that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein, and encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Know when to keep your child home
Keeping a sick child home helps protect classmates, teachers and school staff.

“One of the best ways parents can help stop the spread of illness is by keeping children home when they’re sick,” Dr. Middleton said.

Children should stay home if they have or are:

  • A fever
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Parents should also seek medical attention if symptoms last more than five days or if their child develops dehydration, unusual fatigue or worsening symptoms. If you’re unsure whether your child should attend school, contact your pediatrician or follow your school’s illness guidelines.

Child smiling with backpack

Stay up to date on annual checkups
Before the school year gets into full swing, schedule your child’s annual wellness visit or sports physical if they participate in athletics.

These appointments allow your pediatrician to monitor growth and development, complete required school forms and address any concerns before they become bigger issues during the school year.

Help ease first-day nerves
Returning to school can bring excitement, but it can also cause anxiety.

Talk with your child about any worries they have before the first day. Asking open-ended questions can help uncover what’s causing their anxiety and allow parents to provide reassurance and support.

Watch for learning challenges
As students settle into a new school year, parents should pay attention to how they’re adjusting academically.

If your child consistently struggles in a particular subject, talk with their teacher early. Parents should also ask about an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other educational supports if a learning disability may be contributing to academic challenges.

Think beyond the classroom
Back-to-school safety doesn’t end when the bell rings.

Remind children to watch for traffic when walking or biking to school, wear a properly fitted helmet when riding bicycles or scooters, and choose backpacks with wide, padded shoulder straps to help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain.

A Healthy School Year Starts at Home
Children will inevitably be exposed to germs during the school year, but healthy habits can help reduce the spread of illness and keep families healthier.

By prioritizing sleep, encouraging good hygiene, knowing when to stay home, and supporting children’s physical and emotional well-being, families can help set the stage for a successful school year. If you have questions about your child’s health as the school year begins, talk with your pediatrician. Small steps today can help keep your child healthier all year long.