Back-to-school is such a busy time! If you are a parent of a school-age child, you probably have lists of school supplies, clothing and sports gear your child will need. But there’s more to think about. Youngsters also need to avoid missing school days due to sickness. That’s why we put together this handy checklist to help you prepare your child for a healthy year.
Schedule a back-to-school health check.
- Your child’s doctor can check for and treat any health problems now.
- If your child takes part in school sports, a physical exam may be required. At the least, it will help diagnose health problems that might get worse with exercise.
Vaccines are the best way to protect a child from sickness.
- Talk to your doctor about what vaccines your child should get, based on age.
- Vaccines work with the body to build up immunity to harmful diseases.
- Most vaccines have little to no side effects.
Make a plan for packing healthy lunches and snacks.
- Fresh, natural foods can strengthen a child’s immune system, prevent obesity and improve concentration in school.
- A diet high in vitamins and proteins, and low in saturated fats and sodium, will keep a brain sharp and a body healthy
Before school begins, teach your child how to prevent the spread of germs.
- Wash hands by rubbing them with soap under warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wash hands before eating, after using the restroom and after playing.
- Show your child how to sneeze and cough into his or her elbow.
Pack light!
- A child’s backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10-20% of his or her body weight.
- Look for wide straps and a padded back, or consider a backpack on wheels.
