The arrival of August doesn’t just mean slightly cooler weather, but also marks the return of students to school across the country.
It’s an exciting time of the year, but before stepping foot in the classroom, it’s smart to take a few practical steps to help ensure your family stays healthy. From immunizations to daily wellness habits, these preparations can set the tone for a strong, healthy start to the academic year.
If you have any questions about how best to prepare your family for a healthy first month of the school year, then contact Community Pharmacy for more personalized recommendations.
Immunization Check: Stay Up to Date
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect children from preventable illnesses, especially the ones that commonly spread in school settings.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends reviewing your child’s immunization record before the first day of school (or as soon as possible) to ensure they are up to date on required shots like:
- MMR – Measles, Mumps, Rubella
- Polio – Poliomyelitis
- DTaP – Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis
- Varicella – Chickenpox
Other shots, like Seasonal Influenza for the flu, are recommended as well and required in some instances.
If you are unsure which vaccines your child might need, contact Community Pharmacy today for a full review and to schedule any necessary appointments before the back-to-school rush.
Physicals and Preventive Screenings
An annual physical exam is always a good idea to gain a thorough understanding of your child’s health before the busy academic year and extracurricular activities begin.
These checkups often include vision and health screenings, growth assessments, and conversations about mental health. Preventative screenings help catch potential health concerns early, whether it’s signs of asthma before sports season takes off or a vision issue that could affect classroom learning.
Community Pharmacy can refer you to schedule a physical and preventative screening, to ensure your child has everything they need to make this school year a success.
Managing Medication at School
Whether for allergies, asthma, ADHD, or another condition that requires your child to take prescription medication during school hours, it’s essential to coordinate with the school nurse and administration ahead of time.
Provide the school with an updated list of medications, clear instructions, and any necessary medical documentation. A pharmacist can also help prepare properly labeled prescription containers that meet school requirements.
Building Healthy Daily Habits
A new school year brings a significant change in schedule for students, compared to the more freeform summer days. Establishing a consistent routine can have a significant impact on their energy levels and provide a strong foundation for their physical health.
Some personal health priorities include:
- Sleep – aim for between 8-10 hours (studies show this varies by age and individual)
- Nutrition – provide a well-balanced diet and healthy snacks
- Hygiene – reinforce personal hygiene etiquette to help prevent the spread of germs
- Exercise – encourage daily physical movement that matches interests
Start the New School Year Strong
By addressing these key areas: immunizations, physicals, medication management, and healthy habits, you’re setting your child up for success both in and out of the classroom. A little preparation today can go a long way toward keeping your family healthy and your child ready to learn.
For more back-to-school health tips or to speak with a healthcare professional, call or visit your closest Community Pharmacy today.