As kids head back to school, getting them properly prepared can set them up for a successful start. Sanford Health experts offer advice to make the transition from summer to school easier and healthier.
Before going back to school
Schedule a wellness visit or sports physical
A wellness visit is a comprehensive physical exam that gives doctors, parents and children the opportunity to talk about nutrition, behaviors, immunizations and other age-appropriate topics. A well child visit meets all the requirements of a sports physical and more.
Most schools and summer camps require sports physicals before students can participate in athletics and other activities. A sports physical includes a physical exam with a provider to ensure safe participation, and completion of the sports physical form.
“Just like checking vaccine requirements, it is smart to check your state/school district recommendation for when sports physicals are needed,” said Sanford Children’s pediatrician Stephanie Hanson, M.D.
Get vaccinated
Immunizations help prevent serious illnesses and will help keep your child and other children safe. Dr. Hanson recommends parents talk with their provider about what vaccinations are needed at every age. Additionally, she encourages parents to review vaccine requirements for grades K-12 in the state where your child attends school.
Catch some z’s
It can take time for children to get back into a school routine, which includes a sleep schedule. Every couple of days, parents can gradually change kids’ bedtime and wake time until you’ve established your needed school routine.
In addition to a sleep schedule, a good bedtime routine might include taking a warm bath, picking out clothes for the next day and reading a book.
Go shoe shopping
If your child’s shoes are too tight or have seen better days, upgrading to a new pair is important. It might be time for a new pair if there is wear and tear on the sole of the shoe.
When school starts
Start with a healthy breakfast
Families can plan for busy school mornings by preparing food in advance. Pre-made breakfasts like egg muffins or overnight oats are simple and healthy options. Healthy ingredients like oatmeal, nuts, fruits, vegetables and spices can help kids stay full until lunchtime.
Walk and bike safely
Streets get busier when kids head back to class, and according to Safe Kids Worldwide, unintentional pedestrian injuries are the fifth-leading cause of injury-related death in the United States for children ages 5 to 19.
Sanford Children’s community life educator Greta Miller emphasizes the importance of pedestrian safety for walkers, bikers and drivers. Pedestrians and bicyclists should look left, right and left again before crossing the street.
“We want to remind kids to be crossing where cars are actually anticipating them to cross at – at those crosswalks,” Miller said. “We don’t want them darting out between parked cars. Vehicles are not expecting kids to pop out there.”
Miller also encourages kids to not walk or bike while distracted. Avoid distractions such as phones, headphones and digital devices.
“Pop those ear buds out,” she said. “Pay attention to what you’re doing, especially when crossing the street.”
Wash your hands
Dr. Hanson stresses the importance of handwashing.
She says kids should wash their hands frequently throughout the day to reduce the spread of germs, particularly before and after lunch, after using the restroom, after recess and after returning home from school.
Schedule a well child visit at Sanford Health before the school year starts.
Learn more
- Follow these backpack tips to help protect your child’s back
- Preschool friendship: Social skills start in early childhood
- Fuel your kids for after school with healthy snacks
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Posted In Back to School, Children's, Family Medicine, Healthy Living, Parenting
