It’s that time again: the back-to-school season. As a parent, there is so much to prepare for as your child gets ready for their first day of class. Whether they’re in elementary, middle school, junior high, or even high school, heading back can mean being exposed to germs and fighting illnesses. It can be a challenge to make sure your child stays well throughout the school year, but fortunately there are some easy habits you can enforce that will keep your kid’s immune system strong.
- Get enough sleep.
Sleep is very important not only for your child’s health, but also for preparing them to be alert and focused throughout the day. Elementary-aged children need about ten to eleven hours of sleep every night. While this may seem simple, it can be difficult to transition from a sporadic summer sleep schedule of staying up late and sleeping in. Try to make this change incrementally by going to bed a little bit earlier each night.
- Stay up to date on vaccinations and medical exams.
Make sure to check with your pediatrician about state vaccination requirements to ensure your child stays up-to-date. Also, aside from regular vaccinations, flu season is just around the corner, so be sure to schedule that flu shot soon as well. It’s also a good idea to take your child in for a general check up, eye exam, ear test, and dental cleaning before school starts. Children who are suffering from hearing or vision problems might not realize something is wrong until it is corrected.
- Maintain good hygiene.
This includes everything from bathing regularly to brushing their teeth to remembering to wash their hands after using the restroom and before eating. Reinforcing these good hygiene habits are very important for young children and can help prevent your child from picking up germs and illnesses from their new environment.
- Don’t share personal items.
Teach your child to never share food or drinks with their friends. Also, tell your child to try to keep his or her personal belongings in their own space. Wearing a friend’s coat or passing around a shared pencil can also spread germs and cause your child to become sick.
- Get plenty of exercise.
Making sure your child still has time to play and exercise is one of the best ways to keep their mind and body stay healthy. Look into sports offered by your child’s school or other programs such as dance or ballet.
- Eat a balanced diet.
Even though the school year can be hectic and busy, try to make it a habit to have family dinners with well-balanced meals. Eating a balanced diet is the best thing for a body that is still growing and developing. If your child doesn’t like the meals offered by the school, try packing a lunch that still satisfies their nutritional needs.
