One of the first steps to take toward getting kids mentally and physically ready for school is to schedule a primary care doctor’s visit for your child, have their eyesight checked, and make sure they are up to date on all vaccines.
 
Summer break is often treated as a “break” in routine with relaxed rules and less structure. Getting back on track with healthy habits related to nutrition, rest, and exercise should start a couple of weeks before the first day of school so both you and your children have time to adjust. Here are some other things to consider:

  • School Options/Requirements. Many schools are opening for in-person classes. Some schools are still offering virtual or even hybrid versions of school. You’ll want to know your options so you can make an informed decision based on your child’s age and circumstances. If your child will be attending school in person, you’ll need to know about mask and distancing requirements so you can prepare your child.
  • School Health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a great resource for Adolescent and School Health. In addition to updates related to COVID guidelines for schools, the CDC also provides information regarding mental health and protective and risk factors for youth. You can also find great statistics on the correlation between good health and good grades.
  • Lunch and Snacks. We know healthy meals and snacks are important for kids. Schools offer nutritionally balanced meals. The challenge is being sure your child is making healthy choices when you aren’t there. School lunches are often listed on the school website. Review the menu online to see if it includes food your child will eat. Talk about it with your child. Consider packing your child’s lunch or sending a healthy snack for days you don’t think the school lunch option will work. Also plan to keep healthy snack options at home for afterschool.
  • Parental Cooperation. Whether it’s scheduling afterschool activities, coordinating lunches, or reinforcing academic expectations, parental cooperation and support are key elements to a successful school year. This can be extra challenging when you’re managing multiple children or separate households. Take time to check in each week to make sure everyone is on the same page.
  • Additional Educational Resources. The U.S. Department of Education offers lots of other resources for parents, students, and teachers. Whether you’re sending your little one off to pre-k for the first time or dropping them off at college, your involvement can make this a great year!