Why Children Often Get Sick During the Early Stages of School

Starting school is an exciting adventure for little ones, but it often comes with an unexpected challenge: frequent illnesses. Many parents find themselves wondering why their children seem to catch colds, coughs, and other bugs so often during the first few months of preschool. While it can be tough to see your child feeling under the weather, understanding why this happens can ease your concerns and help you support your child through this phase.

1. Building a Strong Immune System

Starting school is an exciting adventure for little ones, but it often comes with an unexpected challenge: frequent illnesses.

One of the main reasons children tend to get sick when they first start school is that their immune systems are still developing. Unlike adults, young children haven’t had much exposure to the many germs that circulate in group environments. According to a study from the American Academy of Pediatrics (2020), children aged 2 to 6 have less mature immune systems, which makes them more prone to common infections, like colds.

Although it’s hard to see your child frequently unwell, this exposure to germs is actually helping to strengthen their immune system. Research from the University of Helsinki (2021) highlights that these small infections help children build their defenses, so over time, they’ll be better at fighting off illnesses.

2. A Whole New World of Interactions

When children enter preschool, they’re suddenly surrounded by new faces, toys, and surfaces to explore. Even with good hygiene practices in place, it’s impossible to avoid the spread of germs entirely. Kids are naturally curious, and they love to touch everything, often forgetting to wash their hands or cover their mouths when coughing.

In Vietnam, a study by Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine (2019) found that children entering preschool encountered 30% more germs in the first six months compared to staying at home. While that might sound concerning, it’s completely normal as children adapt to their new social environment. They’re learning to navigate a world full of shared spaces, which is key for their growth but also a reason for those frequent runny noses.

3. Adapting to a New Routine

Starting school is exciting, but it can also be a little stressful for young children. They’re adjusting to a new routine, meeting new friends, and spending time away from the comforts of home. All of this change can impact their immune system, making them more susceptible to catching bugs.

A study from the University of Cambridge (2020) showed that even small amounts of stress, whether from excitement or nervousness, can lower a child’s immune response temporarily. That’s why some children might fall ill more often during the first few months of school. It’s just part of their body’s natural adjustment process.

4. Clearing Up Some Misconceptions

Most preschools follow strict hygiene standards, with regular cleaning, hand-washing routines, and efforts to teach children healthy habits.

Some parents worry that frequent sickness means the school environment isn’t clean enough. However, most preschools follow strict hygiene standards, with regular cleaning, hand-washing routines, and efforts to teach children healthy habits. Even with the cleanest environment, germs spread easily when children are in close contact with one another.

Another common misconception is that this pattern of frequent illness will continue long term. The good news is that as children’s immune systems strengthen, and they learn better hygiene habits, the frequency of illness usually decreases. By the time they reach school age, many children have built up a stronger immunity.

How You Can Help Your Child

While it’s never fun to see your child sick, there are plenty of ways to support their health during this phase. Teaching them good hygiene habits, like washing hands regularly and covering their mouths when they cough or sneeze, can make a big difference. Providing them with a nutritious diet, ensuring they get enough sleep, and encouraging physical activity also helps boost their immune system.

Most importantly, be patient and understanding. This period of frequent sickness is temporary and normal for many young children. With your support, they’ll come out of it stronger and better equipped to handle the everyday germs they’ll face as they grow.

The Big Picture

In the end, while it’s common for children to catch colds and other minor illnesses when starting school, this is just a phase that helps build a healthier, more resilient child. It’s all part of their development, and before you know it, those sick days will become less frequent.

"By knowing what to expect and why it happens, you can approach this time with confidence and help your child get through it with a smile" - Ms. Paula Hoppu, Pedagogical Head at HEI Schools Saigon Central assured.