As summer days start fading and school season nears, parents should focus on their children’s health and well-being.

This time of year brings back learning and routine. Also, a chance to build healthy habits exists. These habits can help with school success and overall wellness.

Physical Exams:

Prioritizing sports and wellness exams is vital for parents. These assessments are important to make sure kids are ready for school sports and other physical activities.

Sports physical typically assesses a child’s overall health, including their heart, lungs, and musculoskeletal system. This evaluation can help find any problems. It can reveal hidden injuries or conditions that might affect performance or health during play.

General wellness check-ups are equally important. These exams can help check a child’s growth. They also monitor vaccinations and address concerns about nutrition, mental health, and overall well-being.

Vaccines:

Ensuring that children’s vaccines are up to date is essential for maintaining their health and the health of the community. Vaccines protect against various contagious diseases that can have serious consequences, including hospitalization and long-term health issues.

These are a list of some of the most common vaccines children receive during their initial 14 years:

  • Flu
  • MMR ( Measles, mumps and rubella)
  • T-DAP (Tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis A
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)
  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) 
  • Rotavirus
  • Inactivated poliovirus (IPV),
  • Varicella (VAR)

Establish A Good Bedtime Routine for Quality Sleep:

With these steps, you can help your child develop a positive sleep routine that fosters quality sleep and overall well-being:

  • Consistent Bedtime
  • Wind Down Activities
  • Limit Screen Time
  • Create a Cozy Environment
  • Bath Time
  • Read Together
  • Talk About the Day
  • Establish a Comfort Item
  • Encourage Positive Sleep Habits
  • Be Patient and Consistent

Practice Good Hygiene Habits:

Important for children to learn and practice good hygiene, both in school and at home. This will help prevent illnesses and foster promoting personal hygiene.

  • Oral hygiene
  • Hand washing properly
  • Daily showers or baths
  • Clean clothes
  • Maintaining their personal spaces and property
  • Organization of school work and belongings
  • Regular hair care
  • Staying hydrated
  • Limiting screen time
  • Regular exercise

Manage Medical Conditions:

Some children may suffer from chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, allergies, or more. Make sure your school and school nurse knows about your child’s healthcare needs and what they may need to have on hand.

Be sure and pack appropriate medical supplies such as insulin, inhalers, epi-pens, and diabetic supplies.

You can help your child by making a mini first aid kit. This kit can fit in their backpack. It should include items like band-aids and alcohol pads. Having this kit is useful for any minor injuries.

Here are some additional tips for back-to-school success:

  • Ensure you select the right backpack
  • Pack nutrient rich snacks and lunches.
  • School bus safety
  • Teach your child about stranger danger
  • Teach about being aware of their surroundings
  • Monitor an potential on ongoing bullying
  • Cellphone safety
  • Establish a good study routine
  • Make sure you have proper school supplies