Step1

Teach kids about Swine Flu (H1N1) by letting them know that the outbreak is referred to as a health emergency so enough medicine (like Tamiflu or Relenza) will be allocated to areas that will possibly need it. Compare the Swine Flu to a regular seasonal flu, but acknowledge that it’s more serious because it’s hitting its stride after the traditional flu season and is a blend of three types of influenza (viruses that typically affect pigs, birds and people).

Step2

Stress that the Swine Flu is easily passed from person to person. Equip them with “tools” to help prevent getting sick. Teach kids about swine flu preventive measures like washing hands often, particularly before eating meals or a snack. (You can also give them and their classroom an antibacterial hand sanitizer for use throughout the day.) Instruct them to stop rubbing their eyes, touching their noses, putting fingers in their mouth and avoid sharing drinks with other kids to keep germs at bay.

Step3

Educate your kids about H1N1 symptoms (such as fever, an achy body, a sore throat, runny nose and occasionally throwing up or stomach upset) to empower them since they’ll know what to look for. If your children are known to “adopt” symptoms after they hear about them, however, you may just want to assure them that you’ll check them for symptoms each night before bed as reassurance.

Step4