Before your child heads back to school this fall, take intentional steps as a family to prepare for a great year. Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or a teen taking on high school, recognizing and planning for your student’s needs helps support a safe, happy and successful return to the classroom and school activities.
“Back-to-school season is filled with big emotions for children and parents alike, from nerves and trepidation to excitement and anticipation,” said Shannon Godsil, M.D., a pediatrician at Children’s Physicians, Val Verde. “Families can help set kids up for success by creating good habits and routines that support physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Planning together as a family is also a great way to get kids involved in successfully balancing schoolwork, healthy activities and downtime during the academic year.”
Some tips to keep in mind for back-to-school time:
Sleep Habits
- Establish consistent bedtimes.
- Limit screen time well before bed.
- Ensure 10-12 hours of rest for young kids and 8-10 hours for teens.
Nutrition & Hydration
- Eat a nutritious breakfast with protein.
- Pack a water bottle to avoid sugary drinks and encourage hydration all day.
- Consider weekly school lunch menus, planning for either a hot lunch or a cold lunch brought from home.
Vaccinations & Boosters
- Check with your trusted provider to stay on schedule with COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, flu shots and other childhood immunizations.
- Keep track of your child’s full immunization records for easy access.
School Night Routines
- Stay on top of homework, chores and other responsibilities each night.
- Pack backpacks the night before to avoid rushing in the morning.
- “Brush, Books, Bed”: Establish habits with proper hygiene, reading and lights out at a reasonable hour.
Hygiene Habits
- Encourage kids to wash their hands throughout the day, especially before eating and after blowing their nose or visiting the bathroom.
- Teach kids to cover their coughs.
- Reinforce school policies on social distancing and masking, as applicable.
Walking & Biking to School
- Practice your child’s route between school and home.
- Discuss your family’s drop-off and pickup plans.
- Require the use of a helmet if riding a bike, no matter the distance.
- Teach kids the “rules of the road.”
Easing Anxiety
- Review classroom rules and expectations in advance.
- Discuss which teachers and staff your child will rely upon for help.
- Point out positives, like seeing old friends and meeting new ones.
- If needed, request to visit a new school or classroom before the first day.