Back-to-School Health Tips

It’s that time of the year again: the school bells are ready to ring, and anticipation for the new academic year is here! As we welcome the return to school, we at Neighbor’s Pharmacy find it crucial to provide our children with some essential health techniques to ensure their well-being throughout the year. Here are some tips for maintaining good health during the back-to-school period to begin a successful school year.

Before you start the school year, ensure that your child is up to date with their health check-ups and immunizations. Regular health examinations are crucial to detect potential health issues early. Immunizations protect your child from various diseases, some of which can be quite serious.

A healthy diet and proper hydration are key to keeping your child energized and focused in school. Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Sleep is another crucial factor for a child’s health and academic performance. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, school-aged children require 9-12 hours of sleep per night, while teenagers need 8-10 hours. Physical activity is a vital part of a child’s health. Encourage activities that keep your child moving and active, whether it’s organized sports, biking, walking, or just playtime in the park. The CDC recommends that children and adolescents get at least one hour of physical activity daily to keep them healthy.

Schools can sometimes be a hotspot for germs. To prevent this, teach your child about good hygiene practices, such as washing their hands properly and using hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. They also shouldn’t be sharing personal items like water bottles or combs, and teach them to sneeze or cough into their elbows instead of their hands.

The transition back to school can be stressful and may cause anxiety in some children. It’s essential to maintain open communication and provide a safe space for your child to express their feelings. If you notice signs of prolonged stress or anxiety, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

Setting the stage for a healthy school year involves more than buying new books and supplies. It also means reinforcing healthy habits, keeping up with medical check-ups, promoting a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, encouraging physical activity, and looking out for the mental health of our children.

Neighbor’s Pharmacy is here to help you keep your child healthy, happy, and ready to learn throughout the school year! If we can help in any way, please stop by today!