Parental Tips for a Healthy Back-to-School Experience
As summer winds down and the school year approaches, it’s important to prepare our children for a smooth and healthy transition back to school. Nice’s clinicians have compiled their top tips to help ensure your child’s success and well-being as they head back to the classroom.
Keep Your Children Hydrated
Send Them with a Water Bottle: Keeping hydrated is essential, especially during the hot early weeks of school. A reusable water bottle can help your child stay refreshed throughout the day.
Regularly Clean Water Bottles: To prevent mold and bacteria buildup, encourage your child to wash their bottle regularly or rotate bottles so they always have a clean one.
Start their Days with a Nutritious Breakfast
The Importance of a Hearty Breakfast: Ensure your child eats breakfast to fuel their brain for the mental work ahead. Provide a breakfast that includes protein and healthy fats, not just carbs. A balanced breakfast will keep your child alert and energized!
Healthy Snacks: After school, offer nutritious snacks and encourage physical activity to help them unwind and stay healthy.
Stay Involved In Their Lives and School Work
Have Daily Check-Ins with Your Kids: Take time to listen to your child without distractions. Find ways to keep the conversation fresh, by using some alternative ways to say “How Was Your Day”. Be mindful of changes in their behavior that might indicate issues at school.
Keep In Touch with Their Teachers - Maintain open communication with teachers and other school administrators. Familiarizing yourself and your child with their classroom can also help reduce anxiety.
Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate their successes and efforts. A positive attitude from parents helps children stay optimistic.
Patience and Understanding: Be patient with your child as they navigate new experiences and emotions. Listen to them and acknowledge their feelings and fears.
Establish and Practice A Daily Routine
Establish Routines Early: Set up school-day routines for homework and bedtime well before school starts. Knowing the school’s schedule, especially lunchtime, can help adjust meal times at home.
Practice Expectations: Discuss and practice school expectations. Set up designated zones for homework and keeping their school supplies organized.
Excitement for the New Year: Involve your kids in back-to-school shopping and express excitement about the new school year. Your enthusiasm can be contagious!
Bedtime Routine: Start adjusting their sleep schedule before school starts. Teenagers, in particular, need around 10 hours of sleep.
Family Dinners: Aim to have family dinners at least 3-4 times a week. This time together helps track everyone’s well-being and fosters family communication.
Teach Children Good Hygiene Practices
Hand Hygiene: Teach proper handwashing techniques to prevent the spread of germs. Ensure they dry their hands thoroughly to avoid skin irritation.
Personal Hygiene: Remind them of the importance of personal hygiene, especially during the fall and winter months.
Students Need Plenty of Sleep
Sufficient Sleep: Ensure your child gets 8-10 hours of sleep each night, depending on their age.
Device-Free Bedtime: Help them develop good sleep practices by stopping the use of electronic devices 2-3 hours before bed. Consider creating a centralized charging station for all devices.
By incorporating these tips into your back-to-school preparations, you can help set your child up for a healthy and successful school year. Remember, the key is to start early and maintain a positive and supportive environment at home. Happy back-to-school season!