Back to school - here are some valuable tips to help keep your kids safe this school year. 

The new school year is just around the corner! We know you’re doing everything you can to ensure your kids are prepared – physically, mentally, and emotionally for back to school. 

As your kids are about to head back to their classrooms, there are a few ways to ensure your kids are ready. Here’s how:

1. Ensure your kids are up-to-date on all vaccinations 

To prepare your kids before they head back to the classrooms, make sure they’re up to date on any necessary vaccines. 

Keep in mind, although potentially not required to attend school, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has authorized COVID-19 vaccines for children older than six months.  Fully vaccinated children are less likely to contract and spread diseases. 

2.                 Teach children to wash their hands properly 

Washing hands correctly is a critical activity in preventing the spread of germs. Kids are most likely to come in contact with more germs in classrooms and playgrounds.

By teaching your kids to wash their hands properly before school starts, they’ll be able to combat some of those schoolhouse germs they may come home with. Encouraging children to use hand sanitizer when washing hands is not possible is another great way to keep them germ-free.

3.                 Be keen on nutrition, hydration and sleep 

Offering a well-balanced diet leads to a healthy immune system for everyone. Make sure to include fresh fruits and veggies, protein, and whole grains in your child’s diet. By getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and being physically active during the school year, children’s chances of illness go down drastically. 

In recent years, there has been a heightened interest in kids supplements like Elderberry and Vitamin C. Be sure to consult with your child’s doctor before giving supplements. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who eat a well-balanced diet don’t necessarily need to take vitamin supplements. It's best that they get their vitamins from foods.

4.                 Watch out for signs of stress and anxiety. 

Stress and anxiety can negatively affect kids' health, just as they can negatively impact adults' health. Kids can face a lot in school – homework, social pressure, tests, etc. and need to be mentally ready for this. 

As a parent, you should be able to spot symptoms of anxiety and stress in your kids. Identify areas of your child's life that they can control, such as what they wear and how they spend their free time. Together, brainstorm some ways they can de-stress. Depending on the child, this might mean writing in a journal, joining an activity or group or playing with friends. 

As the school year starts and life seems to get busier, make sure that you’re taking the time to focus on your child’s needs. By doing this, you’ll be setting them up to have the best year of school yet! 

Need to book an appointment before the school year starts? Schedule an appointment here.