With the back to school season right around the corner, we should ask ourselves how much and what schools and nurseries are doing to ensure children’s safety.
As a parent, there are many aspects to consider for your child's well-being. The UAE has year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, which contribute to a generally pleasant and inviting atmosphere. Alongside these benefits, it's crucial to be mindful of occasional humidity and dust, which can impact respiratory health and allergies in children. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, such as monitoring air quality reports and ensuring proper ventilation indoors, we can help ensure our children thrive and remain healthy in this dynamic environment.
You may already be doing everything in your power to keep your home safe for your children, but now is a good time to ask the right questions when it comes to the level of safety and cleanliness at your child’s nursery. Is the indoor air quality suitable for young children? Are the surfaces sanitized and clean? Are the water tanks clean and are the premises pest-free?
Many nurseries in Dubai are taking measures to make sure that their premises are clean and safe by employing regular cleaning. However, regular cleaning on its own might not be enough, and sometimes even then the frequency of this cleaning is too low. Playgrounds, play areas, and children’s toys are hotbeds for germs, and when not properly cleaned, make playtime a problem. If you’ve ever had your kids come home with sniffles from allergies, you likely already know that many sicknesses are contracted while they are learning or playing at school.
Schools and nurseries should ensure that their classrooms and play areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized in preparation for the back to school season. Thorough disinfection of surfaces and areas that children are likely to touch is vital to keep the area safe and germ-free.
The nursery should also ensure that their AC ducts are free of dust, as that is one of the biggest causes of breathing problems and irritation in children. Good indoor air quality is crucial for preventing asthma and allergy triggers, especially since we breathe about 11,000 liters of air daily, much of it indoors. This concern is heightened for developing children who are particularly vulnerable. Dusty ducts also attract dust mites, which can cause painful bites. Regular AC duct cleaning can effectively address these issues and maintain a healthier environment for the children.
In some areas, cockroach and mosquito problems are common, making pest control services essential. It's important to assess whether the nursery is currently dealing with any pest issues. Some facilities may neglect minor infestations and only call for pest control services when the situation becomes severe, often to cut costs. To ensure a healthy environment, verify that your nursery is completely pest-free and encourage them to engage professional pest control services before the new semester begins.
Another critical yet often overlooked safety concern is ensuring that the water supply is safe and sanitary. Dirty water tanks can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful contaminants such as algae, mold, and bacteria. Neglecting water tank cleanliness can lead to issues like skin irritation, and infections. A nursery with poorly maintained or infrequently cleaned water tanks is a major red flag. To prevent these problems, it’s essential to have water tanks regularly cleaned and sanitized by professional services. This ensures that the water remains safe and suitable for children, minimizing health risks and promoting a clean environment.
While it may seem like your options are limited if you're concerned about a nursery's safety, as a parent, you have significant influence. As you prepare for the back to school season, inquire about the measures being taken to protect your child's health and request additional actions if their current efforts seem insufficient. Start by asking the right questions and staying informed. Ensure that the nursery maintains clean AC ducts, regularly sanitizes water tanks, and keeps all surfaces properly disinfected. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in your child's safety and well-being.
A successful school semester starts with a healthy and safe environment.
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