Winter break is a time for cozy family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and—often—sleepovers and shared travel. While these events are wonderful for bonding, they can also increase the risk of head lice spreading among children.

As the new school semester begins, it’s important to take proactive steps to ensure your child returns to class protected from unwanted critters. Below is a back-to-school checklist packed with practical head lice prevention tips to help you start the year on the right foot.

Perform a Thorough Head Lice Check

Inspect your child’s hair before the first day. Use a bright light or have your child sit near a window to spot any movement or white flecks in the hair. Carefully part the hair in small sections, paying close attention to the nape of the neck and behind the ears—lice tend to congregate in these warmer areas. A nit comb can help catch both lice and nits (eggs). 

Talk to Your Child About Not Sharing Personal Items

Winter often means wearing hats, beanies, or scarves—items that can easily transfer lice from one child’s head to another. Remind your child never to share or exchange these items with friends at school or in after-school programs. The same goes for hairbrushes, combs, hair ties, and other personal items. Even seemingly harmless sharing can lead to lice hopping from one head to the next (and by hopping, we don't mean literally, because lice can't fly, hop or jump.)

Clean Winter Gear and Bedding

Wash hats, scarves, and any coats used repeatedly over the holiday break. Use hot water and a high-heat dryer setting if the fabric permits—lice and their eggs can’t withstand high temperatures. If your child had sleepovers during the break, be sure to launder all bedding, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water as well.

Keep Hair Pulled Back or Braided

For children with longer hair, keeping it in a ponytail, braid, or bun can minimize the risk of direct head-to-head contact. This is especially helpful during recess or group activities, where kids naturally stand or play close to one another. Here are 3 lice-defending hairstyles to try.

Consider Preventative Products and Routines

Some families find that using leave-in conditioners or sprays containing natural ingredients—like rosemary, mint, or tea tree oil—can be beneficial as an extra preventative measure. Additionally, regularly scheduled shampooing and thorough comb-outs will give you an early heads-up if any new hitchhikers appear.

Create a Weekly Head Check Routine

A simple check each weekend can prevent a small problem from escalating. By regularly combing through and inspecting your child’s hair, you’ll catch any potential lice or nits before they become a large infestation. Keep the process stress-free: use a detangling spray or conditioner to make combing easier, and turn it into a quick bonding session rather than a chore.

Conclusion

Heading back to school after winter break is an exciting time—new classes, new goals, and a fresh start. By adding head lice prevention to your checklist, you’ll be one step ahead in keeping your child (and your home) free from these persistent pests.

A thorough lice check, good communication with your child and their school, and consistent routines are powerful ways to ensure that your family can look forward to a happy, healthy new semester—without the itch. For natural lice products that really work, place an order with My Hair Helpers today.