By Marissa Michel, MD, The Iowa Clinic
As an Iowa Clinic pediatrician who cares deeply for the health and well-being of children, the back-to-school season is always a busy and important time of the year for me and my colleagues. It’s not just about new backpacks and school supplies; it’s about ensuring your child is physically and mentally ready to thrive in the classroom following the summer season.
Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your little ones for the school year ahead.
- Immunizations Matter
One of the most critical steps in preparing your child for school is making sure they’re up to date on their vaccinations. Immunizations protect children from serious diseases like measles, whooping cough, and chickenpox – all diseases that can spread quickly in a school setting where children are in constant close contact with each other.
Before the school year begins, we recommend checking with your trusted pediatrician to ensure your child has received all recommended vaccines for their age. It’s important to know that immunization requirements can vary by state and school district, so it’s important to stay informed and provide documentation to the school as needed.
For older children involved in fall or winter school sports, scheduling a routine physical is an excellent initial step to starting the new year and season on the right foot, ensuring all necessary vaccinations are up to date.
Another vaccination to entertain for your child is the annual flu vaccine. Although this vaccination is not required for school or sports teams, our team of Iowa Clinic pediatricians and family medicine doctors highly recommend this vaccine for each family member prior to the winter and height of the viral illness season.
- Establish a Sleep Routine
During the relaxing days of summer, it’s common for children to stay up later and sleep in longer. However, getting back into a regular sleep schedule is crucial for their overall health and academic success.
Start adjusting your child’s bedtime and wake-up time gradually, at least a week or two before school starts. Aim for consistent bedtimes and waking times, even on the weekends. A good night’s rest improves concentration, memory, and mood, which are all vital for optimal learning.
- Healthy Eating Habits
Proper nutrition is another key factor in your child’s ability to learn and thrive in school. Encourage a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of water. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they can cause energy crashes, affecting concentration.
Prioritize breakfast as part of your family’s morning routine. This is the most important meal of the day and will help fuel your child’s brain and body, keeping them focused and alert during morning classes.
- Mental Health Awareness
The start of a new school year can bring excitement but also anxiety for some children. Speak openly with your child about their feelings and any concerns they may have. It’s important to reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous. Offering strategies to help them cope with any stress can include deep breathing or positive self-talk/affirmations.
Encourage open communication with teachers and school counselors in the event your child needs their support. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and addressing any issues early can prevent them from affecting academic performance.
- Stay Active and Limit Screen Time
Physical activity is essential for children’s overall health and development. Encourage your child to participate in sports, dance or simply play outside after school. Physical activity helps reduce stress, improve mood, and promote better sleep.
At the same time, it’s important to set limits on screen time, including TV, computers, tablets, and smartphones. Excessive screen time can interfere with sleep and physical activity, as well as affect school performance. Establish screen-free zones and times, such as during meals and an hour before bedtime.
Conclusion
As a parent, you play a crucial role in preparing your child for a successful school year. By focusing on immunizations, establishing healthy routines, promoting good nutrition, supporting mental health, and encouraging physical activity, you are laying the foundation for your child’s academic and personal growth.
Remember, every child is unique, so feel free to adapt these tips to better fit your family’s needs and schedule. By working together with your trusted pediatrician and school staff, you can help ensure that your child has a happy, healthy and productive school year ahead. Call 515.875.9420 to schedule your child’s appointment with one of our Iowa Clinic pediatricians today!