Our School - Attendance

Attendance – Healthy Living – Term 2 & 3

Our data analysis shows that during Term 2 and 3 each year our attendance is considerably lower than other terms. Obviously the fact that it is cold and flu season has a big bearing on this. Below are ways to help beat the flu season and prepare your children's minds and bodies so they are ready for school. Our teacher's focus more than normal on hygiene re: the washing of hands, coughing appropriately, blowing their nose when needed etc.

Good Hygiene 

· Washing your hands regularly and properly with soap and water, after touching your nose or mouth,

  and before handling food

· Sneezing and coughing into tissues (If you don’t have a tissue sneeze into your elbow).

· Cleaning surfaces such as your keyboard, telephone and door handles regularly to get rid of germs

· Not sharing cups and cutlery

· Throw disposable tissues and paper towels in the bin immediately after using them.

 

Sleep 

The more tired we are the more susceptible we may be to colds and flu’s.

Good-quality sleep also helps your child concentrate, remember things and behave well. This will help them to be a successful learner. Poor sleep or not enough sleep affects concentration, memory and behaviour, making it harder for your child to learn. Children who don’t sleep well are more likely to feel sleepy at school during the day and to have difficulties with learning.

Healthy Eating

Obviously the healthier we eat the more capable our bodies are of fighting of nasty bacteria and germs. As well as this, recent research has shown that when people consume a lot of sugar and then attempt challenging tasks, like maths problems, the body produces cortisol (known as the stress hormone) which impedes memory.  When children’s bodies are flooded with cortisol they struggle to pay attention and find it difficult to sit quietly.  The Department of Health and Ageing recommend children bring the following foods in their school lunch:

 

· 1 serve of grain

· 1 serve of dairy

· 1 serve of fruit

· 2 serves of vegetables

· 1 serve of protein

 

· Water to drink

 It's Not Ok to be Away