The back-to-school season brings excitement, new experiences, and unfortunately, increased exposure to germs and health challenges. Watch over your child this back-to-school season by taking proactive steps to protect their wellbeing during this crucial time. These practical strategies will help your family stay healthy this school year with confidence.

Start with Plenty of Sleep

Consistent sleep schedules are fundamental to children’s health and academic success. Start following a bedtime schedule and routine two weeks before school starts to ensure your child gets age-appropriate sleep hours. Create a calming environment by dimming lights an hour before bed and keeping electronic devices out of the bedroom.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise strengthens children’s immune systems and improves their overall health. Encourage your children to participate in sports, walk to school if you live close and old enough, or engage in active playground games during recess. When weather keeps children indoors, create fun movement opportunities like dance parties, obstacle courses, or yoga sessions in your living room.

Practice and Promote Proper Hygiene

Proper handwashing remains the most effective way to prevent illness transmission. Teach your children to wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Pack hand sanitizer in their backpacks and remind them to avoid touching their faces throughout the day.

Head lice prevention deserves special attention during back-to-school season. Children can pick up these unwanted visitors through several unexpected ways, including sharing headphones, using each other’s haircare items, or even sitting close to friends. Teach your children not to share personal items like hairbrushes, hair accessories, or helmets with classmates.

Don’t Forget About Mental Health

The transition back to school can trigger stress and anxiety in children. Create open communication channels where your children feel comfortable sharing their concerns and fears. Build their confidence by celebrating small achievements and maintaining realistic expectations about academic performance.

Help Your Family Have a Healthy Fall Season

Maintaining children’s health during the school year requires following tips like these and paying attention to multiple areas of wellbeing. Focus on building strong foundations through regular exercise, adequate sleep, proper hygiene practices, and emotional support. These habits will serve your family well throughout the academic year and beyond.

Start implementing these strategies before school begins to give your children the best possible start to their academic year. Your proactive approach will pay dividends in fewer sick days, better academic performance, and happier, healthier children.