As amazing as summer always is, the season is quickly coming to an end. And you know what that means: kids are going back to school. Whether the kids are ready or not, they'll soon be back in the classroom every day.
So, as a parent, what can you do to make sure your child is healthy and ready for the school year? Let's take a look at a few simple back-to-school health tips.
Get into a healthy routine: Transitioning from fun-filled, lazy summer days back into a school schedule can be pretty difficult, both for kids and parents. So before school starts, make sure the whole family is getting into a healthy routine. This means getting enough sleep and getting to bed around the same time every night. Along with sleep, make sure you're focusing on nutrition. Eating a well-balanced diet will help kids stay a healthy weight and give them plenty of energy for the school year. Try to incorporate healthy habits into your kids' routines now.
Schedule a physical exam: Back-to-school check-up appointments are always a good idea for kids. Ensure the doctors examine your child’s eyes and ears to detect any issues that could hinder them during the school year. Overall, a physical is a good way to make sure your child is up-to-date on shots and medications and is in good health before heading back to school.
Be aware of health risks: When kids go back to school, they tend to get sick from being around so many other kids. With Americans already getting about a billion colds each year, it's important to know what kind of viruses and conditions your child may be exposed to. Colds, the flu virus, head lice and other illnesses can easily spread from child to child. By knowing what to expect, and preparing for the worst, you can ensure your child will have a safe and healthy school year.
Unfortunately, it isn't possible to prevent your child from ever getting sick again. But by following these few tips — and taking a trip to your local MultiCare Indigo Health for sports physicals or other minor illnesses and injuries — you can ensure your child is as prepared as possible.
