Be Well

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Stay intentional in maintaining healthy habits

CHILDREN’S PHYSICIANS

As fall approaches and everyone adjusts to new school and extracurricular schedules, it’s important to stay intentional as a family to maintain healthy habits. Recognizing and planning for your student’s needs help support a safe, happy and successful return to the classroom and activities.

“Back-to-school season is lled with big emotions for children and parents alike, from nerves and fear to excitement and anticipation,” said Dr. Shannon Godsil, 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 well-being. 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 to ensure your child’s safety and success during the school year:

SLEEP HABITS

Establish consistent bedtimes.

Limit screen time well before bed.

Ensure 10 to 12 hours of rest for young kids and 8 to 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, u 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

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.