8 back to school health tips
Whether it’s their first year ever or it’s time to return after the holidays, help your child get a healthy start to the year with these tips.
1. Sleep tight
Did bedtime get a bit out of hand during the holidays? Start to rein things in and return to a regular pre-bed routine, including quiet time, reading and a darkened, cool room. If facing particular sleep challenges, ask your Pharmacist if melatonin could support.1
2. Head lice
While harmless, they are certainly irritating and unpleasant to deal with. If they come home with your child, apply thick, white conditioner to the hair, separate into sections and comb with a lice comb, repeating until no lice have been found for at least 10 days.2
3. Lunch time
Turn to whole, unpackaged foods as often as possible, including vegetable sticks, cheese, whole meal sandwiches, fruit and yoghurt. These foods satisfy children’s high energy, protein and dairy needs and are also quick to put together.
4. Action plan
If your child has asthma, eczema, allergies or other health issue, ensure their action plan is up-to-date and that a copy has been given to their school or educators.
5. Prep for anxiety
First year of school, changing schools and returning after the holidays can all cause nerves for kids. Plan steps in advance, such as validating their feelings, planning family treats to look forward to, playdates with other children and talking in a relaxed, enthusiastic way about school.3
6. Backpack
Older children can empty their bags at the end of the day to ensure nothing old, mouldy or wet is left inside. Remember also that kids shouldn’t carry more than 10-20% of their bodyweight, so ensure they are not packing unnecessary items.4
7. Checkups & vaccinations
As your GP to check your child’s vaccinations and general health. Depending on your state, you can also book your child’s routine vaccinations at your local TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacist.
8. Walk to school
If it’s possible for your family, walking your child to school increases daily steps, builds stronger muscles and boost bone health. It’s also an ideal moment to chat with your little one. Sometimes when our bodies are busy, conversations flow more easily.