School starts in a few days (some kids may have already started) and besides the stress of how to say goodbye (if they are young) you also have the worry of head lice. Because the last thing you want is a head lice adventure before the school year even starts. And there is no greater source of getting them than from other kids in school or the playground in the afternoon.
However, you can take measures to prevent the spread of head lice among children and adults. Check out some tips on how to prevent the spread of head lice:
#1. Do not share items that touch the head such as combs or towels.
#2. Avoid activities that lead to head-to-head contact.
#3. Keep items, especially clothes on the upper body, away from shared spaces like locker rooms.
Do not share items that touch the head such as combs or towels.
To reduce the likelihood of you or your child getting head lice, start by not sharing items that touch the head. It may be tempting to share personal items, especially with kids, but head lice can pass from one item to another on your head.
So avoid sharing in:
-combs and brushes
-hair clips and accessories
-bike helmets and caps
-scarves and coats
-towels
-headphones
Avoid activities that lead to head-to-head contact
When kids play, they may naturally get their heads close together. But if your child's friend has head lice, then your child may come home with new uninvited guests. Ask your child to avoid games and activities that lead to head-to-head contact with classmates and other friends. Adults, especially those who work with children, should follow the same principle.
Separate your personal items
Shared spaces and shared items can be a breeding ground for head lice. Lockers, changing rooms, drawers, and shared clothing hangers can create an easy opportunity for head lice to pass from one person's belongings to another.
Ask your child to keep their belongings - especially hats, coats, scarves and other clothing - out of shared spaces. For safety reasons, adults should take similar precautions.
