Every parent has been there: the subtle panic that sets in when our kid sneezes or coughs in public without covering their nose or mouth. We know the importance of teaching our kids basic hygiene practices. But how can we break down these essential habits into easy-to-understand steps? That’s where this guide comes in. Furthermore, here on this blog, we have an accompanying Goal Mine class in video format! Let your kids watch, learn, and master the art of considerate “coughing and sneezing.”
Table of Contents
| Step Number | Step Name | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sick? Stay Home | If your kid feels unwell, it’s best to keep them home to prevent the spread and allow for recovery. Self-awareness is promoted. |
| 2 | Sneeze into your elbow | Contain sneezes by directing them into the elbow, reducing the spread of germs on surfaces and hands. |
| 3 | Cough into your elbow | Like sneezing, direct coughs into the elbow. Make it a consistent habit to reduce germ spread. |
Step 1: Sick? Stay Home
Prevention is better than cure. If your kid is under the weather, keeping them Home is best. Why, you ask?
- Firstly, it prevents the spread of any potential illnesses.
- Secondly, it gives them the time they need to recover fully. It is crucial to teach kids to recognize when they’re not feeling their best and communicate that with you. This doesn’t just prevent them from spreading germs, but it also fosters self-awareness.
However, being Home doesn’t mean they can’t engage in some fun learning. For instance, pop on our Goal Mine class video, which deeply covers this step!
Read more: How to Wash Your Hands
Step 2: Sneeze into Your Elbow
Certainly, we’ve all witnessed the age-old sleeve sneeze, and while it might seem counterintuitive to teach our kids to sneeze into their elbow, it’s one of the most effective ways to contain those surprise sneezes. For example, when sneezing into a hand, those germs quickly transfer to toys, door knobs, and even friends. So, how do we get kids to sneeze into their elbows consistently?
- Firstly, make it a game. Every time they remember, reward them.
- Secondly, demonstrate it yourself. Kids are always watching, and they’ll likely mimic what you do. Meanwhile, ensure you explain why it’s essential in a way they can understand. After that, keep practicing until it becomes second nature.
Step 3: Cough into Your Elbow
Similarly to sneezing, the same rule applies to coughing. Similarly to our previous point, it’s all about creating a habit. When they feel that tickle in their throat, their first reaction should be to tuck their face into their elbow. Likewise, make it a fun challenge! Use phrases like “Do the Dracula” – where they cover their mouth and nose with their elbow, much like the classic Dracula pose. Above all, consistency is critical. The more they practice, the more it’ll become an automatic response.
Read more: Hygiene Quiz for Kids
Goally | Skills Training Videos for Kids
Does your child need some extra guidance on building essential life skills? Goally’s TV app for kids has the most robust video library of skills training videos for kids. Ranging from content like “How to Brush Your Teeth” to “How to Make Friends at School,” we have dozens of interactive video lessons for kids with thinking and learning differences.
Dive into the Goal Mine channel, where Puffy the Penguin leads your child through behavior skills training videos. They’ll learn social, hygiene, and living skills that are key to their independence. For those moments when they need a break, the Chill Zone channel offers low stimulation video content with Paulie the Penguin at the beach, perfect for relaxation and self-regulation.
In conclusion, teaching our kids how to cough and sneeze might seem daunting, but it’s all about breaking it down into bite-sized steps. These steps aren’t just about physical actions and understanding their reasoning. As you embark on this learning journey, use our Goal Mine class video for step 1 and consider getting Goally’s dedicated Tablet for a more comprehensive lesson on “coughing and sneezing.” The world of considerate sneezing and coughing awaits!
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
