Going from the carefree days of the summer to returning to school and entering a structured academic environment has once again presented a unique set of challenges for many families. With the hustle and bustle of new schedules and demands, it’s easy to overlook important aspects of health. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep your children safe and healthy, whether they’re going to school for the first time or returning after summer break.
Prioritize immunizations
Vaccines are the cornerstone of preventive health care. They help protect children from many infectious diseases. Timely vaccinations promote herd immunity, protecting your children and your community.
Before the school year begins, make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date. Talk to your pediatrician to determine the vaccinations your child needs based on his age, health history, and the types of diseases prevalent in your area. Stick to your child’s recommended immunization schedule to build a protective barrier against infectious diseases (such as influenza, measles, mumps, and even COVID-19) that can affect their health and disrupt their well-being and learning.
balanced diet
A nutritious diet supports optimal brain development and proper body growth. It also helps keep energy levels high for learning and playing. Children who eat a balanced diet experience enhanced cognitive function, manifested by higher learning agility, better problem-solving skills, and better memory, all of which are factors in improving academic performance.
When preparing school lunches, balance carbs, protein and healthy fats. A hearty lunch might include a turkey and avocado sandwich on whole-wheat bread, carrot sticks, and a piece of fruit. Minimize processed foods, sugary snacks and drinks.
Even if your children eat lunch at school, you can still play a role in ensuring they are eating healthy.
- Get involved in school nutrition programs by volunteering on the school lunch committee. Your participation can influence menu planning and food purchasing.
- Work with other parents to connect the school with local farmers. This creates a sustainable food supply, supports farm-to-fork initiatives and introduces children to fresh, seasonal produce.
- Monitor school menus to assess their nutritional value. If you or your child have concerns, please communicate them to management and allow time to resolve them.
Remember to provide adequate hydration, whether they bring their own lunch or pick it up at school. Encourage children over 4 years old to drink five to eight glasses of water throughout the day.
Ensure transportation safety
Approximately 120,000 pedestrian deaths occur among school-going children under the age of 14.
When it’s time to return to school, make sure they understand transportation routes and know the safest route to school. Teach your children to use sidewalks, look both ways before crossing the street, and avoid distractions on the way to and from school. Wearing reflective materials can reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents, so if your child walks to school, invest in bright clothing to increase visibility. Bus passengers are reminded to fasten their seat belts, stay seated during the ride, follow the driver’s instructions and never walk behind the bus.
Consider your child’s age, maturity and development when deciding whether you should ride a bike, walk or take the bus. They should be aware of their surroundings, familiar with their routes, and able to handle unexpected situations as they arise.
Promote physical activity
Children need at least an hour of exercise for healthy growth and development. Regular activity promotes physical health and mental well-being, thereby improving academic performance. It can also help your children develop habits that will last a lifetime.
Encourage your child to play sports, take dance classes, or participate in other physical activities. You don’t have to wait until they go back to school to introduce fitness. Start incorporating exercise into your family’s daily routine now. Play outside while the weather is conducive. When you do this, both you and your child can get some exercise and bond.
Encourage proper hygiene
Cleaning remains an important preventive measure to prevent the spread of disease. Schools are breeding grounds for germs, so teach your children to maintain hygiene at home and at school.
- Teach proper hand washing: Demonstrate proper hand washing techniques, emphasizing the importance of lathering, scrubbing for 20 seconds, and drying with a clean towel. Post colorful reminders near sinks and bathrooms to get them in the habit of washing their hands when they return to school.
- Sneeze and cough etiquette: Teach your child to cover their mouth with a tissue or their elbow when they cough or sneeze, and to discard the tissue immediately to avoid spreading germs.
- Hand sanitizer available: Purchase portable sanitizer that can be brought to school.
Children learn best through role models, so maintain good hygiene habits yourself to reinforce these habits.
Health and Safety Promote Academic Success
Before your child returns to school and as you prepare for the new school year, it is critical to implement practices that keep your child healthy and safe. Taking proactive steps can greatly contribute to their well-being and lay the foundation for academic and personal success. Remember to customize these guidelines to your child’s specific needs and preferences, as everyone is unique.
