A handy checklist to help your child stay well.
When the new school year rolls around, ensuring a healthy transition back to the classroom is just as important as getting new school supplies. This year, consider these back-to-school tips from Jon Sicat, DO, Director of the Med-Peds Residency Program and Interim Director of the Pediatric Health Center for Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.
1. Avoid backpack overload:
School-age children are susceptible to injuries related to backpacks—tripping over them, getting hit by them and, of course, straining back and shoulder muscles. “Overloaded backpacks can lead to muscle injuries, scoliosis or back pain,” Dr. Sicat explains. He recommends giving your child a backpack with wide, padded straps and talking with him about using both straps rather than hanging the bag from one shoulder. “Your child’s pack should weigh no more than 10 percent of their body weight,” he says.
2. Stay up to date with checkups and vaccines:
New Jersey state law requires children who attend daycare, preschool and public and private schools to receive a series of immunizations. “An annual health assessment should be completed for all students. For kids who play sports, an additional sports physical should be performed by a credentialed
provider to identify related health risks like heart problems or seizures,” Dr. Sicat says.
3. Teach your child about head lice:
These tiny insects, which feed on blood from the scalp, most often spread through crawling from one head to another. Children should learn to avoid hair-to-hair contact during sports or play, and never share anything that goes on their head—combs, brushes, scarves, hats, towels or hair ornaments.
4. Scrub away germs:
Every parent knows that back-to-school means potential contact with flu and gastrointestinal viruses. “The number one way to prevent infection is to get your child in the habit of regular hand washing,” Dr. Sicat says. “If your child comes down with an illness, keep him or her home to prevent passing it on to others.”
5. Manage medications:
“If your child needs medications during the school day, you’ll need physician authorization for the school nurse to give them,” Dr. Sicat says. That includes emergency prescriptions like asthma inhalers or an EpiPen. Discuss allergies with teachers and administrators before school starts.
“School food allergy policies vary—some are completely nut-free, while others have separate tables in the cafeteria for kids with allergies,” Dr. Sicat says.
6. Prioritize sleep and mental health:
Ease children back into school by setting expectations ahead of time. “If your child has special needs, if they’re shy or anxious, or they have mental
health issues, speak with the teacher about it before the school year starts,” Dr. Sicat says. “And start setting a healthy sleep routine at least a week before school starts.”
Learn more about Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, or call 973.926.7300.