Children do not have very strong immune systems yet, so they are more susceptible to catching the flu. The flu is not pleasant to deal with and can make your child miss days of school. As a parent, you can help your child prevent this contagious disease. Here are five  great tips for helping your child avoid the flu. 

Teach Your Child About the Importance of Hand Washing

Regular hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the flu. However, if your child is like a lot of kids, he may not wash his hands as often as needed. Tell your child to thoroughly wash his hands with warm water and soap after he uses the bathroom and before he eats. Explain that regular hand washing will fight off germs and keep him healthy.

Buy a Humidifier

Another way you can help your child avoid the flu is to buy a humidifier. A humidifier will add moisture to the air, which is not good for the flu virus. The flu virus likes a dry environment and will have trouble surviving in a humid home.

Encourage Your Child to Exercise

Exercise strengthens the immune system, making the body less susceptible to the flu. Encourage your child to run around in the yard, play basketball or take the dog for a walk. If it is too cold outside, have him do indoor exercises such as jumping jacks, lunges and pushups. 

Discourage Your Child from Sharing Cups and Utensils

If your child is like a lot of kids, he has probably shared his beverage or food with his friends. As a parent, it is important to discourage this behavior. If your child frequently shares cups and utensils with others, he will be exposed to germs and can easily catch the flu.

Do not Forget About the Flu Shot

Although the flu shot is not 100 percent effective, it can greatly reduce your child's chances of contracting the flu. If your child feels scared about getting the flu shot, explain to him that it will prevent him from getting sick.

If you follow these great tips, you can greatly decrease your child's risk of catching the flu. However, if your child still does get the flu, you should make sure he gets plenty of rest and fluids. If he still feels sick after four or five days, take him to the pediatrics office.