Back to School Health Tips for Kids

Schedule readjustment: Summer often leads to late nights and sleeping in. Start preparing your child for the school schedule by gradually imposing an earlier bedtime a few weeks before the semester begins so a normal sleeping schedule can resume before day one. 

Vaccinations: Your child will need vaccinations to protect against illnesses such as whooping cough, chicken pox, measles and the flu. Ask your doctor for a list of recommended vaccinations for different age groups and make sure your child is up to date. 

Eye exam: Did you know that 80 percent of learning occurs through the eyes? An annual eye exam can help your eye doctor diagnose and treat any vision impairment your child may have. 

Healthy snacks: Omitting snacks to prevent childhood obesity can actually be bad for your child’s health. Rather, pack healthy snacks and teach your child the importance of better eating habits. Fruits and veggies are a good choice. Avoid processed packaged foods and soft drinks, which can significantly increase your child’s risk of obesity. 

Hand washing: Teach your child to wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 15 to 20 seconds after using the bathroom and before eating. This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection. In between washes or when water is unavailable, your child can use hand sanitizer for a quick clean. 

Sick day plan: Children should never attend school with a fever and should not return to school until he or she has been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication. It may be difficult to plan for sick days if both parents work, but it’s an essential part of parenthood. Keep a list of family members, friends and babysitters that you can call for assistance in a pinch. Also, be aware of your school’s policy. You may need to provide a list of people who have your permission to pick up your child if you can’t make it there yourself.