Health Tips for Back to School

With summer coming to a close and kids heading back to the classroom, now is the perfect time to review some back-to-school health tips. According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, “healthy students are better learners,” and not just in academics. They also have better behavior, attitudes and cognitive skills. Parents can give their kids a head start with these vital health tips.

A Good Breakfast

According to the same CDC report, students who eat breakfast have better grades, improved cognitive performance, and lower absenteeism. Many schools offer breakfast, but parents can also prepare many breakfast options, such as grains, fruits, proteins, and dairies, right at home before sending the kids off to school.

Plenty of Sleep

A good night’s sleep can improve a student’s ability to focus and retain information, as well as boost energy and increase problem-solving skills. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that students 14 years old or older get eight to 10 hours of sleep each night. Students between the ages of 6 and 13 should get anywhere from nine to 11 hours of sleep, and students under the age of 5 should get 10 to 13 hours.

Regular Doctor Checkups

Regular visits to the student’s pediatrician, dentist, and eye doctor are very important. Doctors can ensure the student is physically healthy and identify any potential health risks. Most experts recommend that students have annual checkups with their pediatrician and eye doctor and semi-annual checkups with their dentist.

Updated Vaccinations

We recommend all students have up-to-date vaccinations prior to attending schools. These vaccinations provide protection against dangerous diseases, such as polio and measles. The CDC also recommends that all students get an annual flu shot. Additionally, parents should encourage their kids to wash their hands regularly, sneeze into their upper arm if necessary and maintain other good hygiene practices.

Communication

Bullying is a problem in many primary and secondary schools across the country. It is important for parents to keep the lines of communication open with their children and encourage them to talk about any problems they are having at school.

Pediatric Care Centers are open 24/7 to ensure all students in the Jacksonville area have access to the services they need to start their year off healthy. Parents can schedule an appointment for an annual checkup or vaccines for their kids today.