Back to School Health Tips
Change is hard for many children, especially changing from a relaxed, slow-paced summer break back to structured classes with homework. While change is inevitable, parents have some strategies we can use to make the transition a little easier.
Getting children back into a routine can be helpful. At least two weeks before the start of school, move bedtime up a little and start setting an alarm for the morning. Oftentimes, just going to bed 15-20 minutes earlier every night and waking 15-20 minutes earlier in the morning is all that’s needed. This 15 minutes every night for two weeks adds up and will get kids back into the routine with no trouble. Also, use this time to get back into a morning routine. Set an alarm clock and set limits for what needs to happen before your child ventures out of his room and starts lounging on the couch. Requirements will look different in each family but often will include getting dressed, brushing teeth and fixing hair.
A new school year brings new teachers, maybe a new school and some new rules and expectations. To the best of your ability, lay out those expectations and guidelines for your child. Providing more information ahead of time will set kids up for success and make for fewer “freak out” moments later on. Discuss when lunchtime is going to be. Will your kids be buying their lunches or packing lunches every day? Do they need to change into different clothes for P.E. class? Do they have lockers they’ll be leaving their backpacks in? What supplies are they expected to take into class with them? The list is endless, and while you may not know the answer to all these questions, anything you can prepare them for is helpful.
Oh, the paperwork that needs to be completed before school begins! Enrollment forms, emergency contacts, an allergy list—the list can go on and on. Discuss with the school nurse and administration any forms you may be lacking prior to the first day of school.
Depending on the ages of your children and activities in which they participate, they may need vaccines and physicals before returning to classes. Doctors’ offices can fill these appointment spots quickly, so call and schedule your appointment early. Also look into non-traditional ways to get this done, like at health departments or chiropractors’ offices.
School supplies are another way to help your child feel prepared and ready to start a new school year. Shop early for the best deals and options. Although school supplies are not the most exciting and can be expensive, picking out one or two items that reveal your child’s personality can help your scholar be excited to show off items to their classmates and dive into a new year.
The start of the new school year may seem overwhelming, but with some planning both kids and parents can manage the change well. Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year!
Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.