As the new school year begins, families are busy shopping for supplies, meeting teachers, and getting back into a routine. It’s also the perfect time to prioritize your child’s health. A few simple steps can help keep your family healthy, reduce the spread of illness, and set your child up for a successful school year.
Here are 10 tips from Peterson Health to help your family head back to school safely.
1. Schedule an Annual Checkup
Before school starts, make sure your child is up to date on annual wellness visits. These appointments help monitor growth and development, address any health concerns, and ensure your child is ready for the year ahead.
2. Stay Current on Vaccinations
Vaccinations help protect your child and those around them from preventable illnesses. Check with your primary care provider to ensure your child meets school immunization requirements.
3. Practice Good Hand Hygiene
Encourage children to wash their hands often with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
A consistent bedtime routine is essential for learning and overall health. Most school-aged children need 9–12 hours of sleep each night, depending on their age.
5. Pack Healthy Meals and Snacks
Nutritious foods help fuel growing bodies and improve focus in the classroom. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of water throughout the day.
6. Know When to Stay Home
If your child has a fever, is vomiting, or isn’t feeling well, keeping them home can help prevent the spread of illness and give them time to recover.
7. Keep Backpacks Light
A backpack should generally weigh no more than 10–15% of your child’s body weight. Wearing both shoulder straps can help prevent neck, shoulder, and back pain.
8. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Reducing screen time in the evening can improve sleep quality and help children feel more rested and ready to learn.
9. Talk About Mental Health
Returning to school can bring excitement, but it can also cause stress or anxiety. Make time to check in with your child about how they’re feeling and encourage open conversations.
10. Establish Care with a Primary Care Provider
Having a trusted primary care provider means your family has someone to turn to for annual checkups, illnesses, preventive care, and ongoing health concerns throughout the year.
Start the School Year Strong
A healthy school year begins with healthy habits. By taking a proactive approach to your child’s physical and emotional well-being, you can help them thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Ready to schedule your child’s annual wellness visit?
Peterson Health’s primary care team is here to help your family stay healthy all year long.
