Back To School
Now that you’re ready for your child’s school year by purchasing the necessary pens, pencils, notebooks, backpack, and the exciting new wardrobe, it’s time to consider your child’s health as they head off to school.
Prepare for Proper Sleeping Habits
As the summer winds down, so should the routine of late nights and sleeping-in. Your child will be more alert and focused in class if you start getting them ready for their school schedule 3-4 days before classes begin so your child gets accustom to the same bedtime every night.
School-aged children need at least 10 hours of sleep and teens need between 9-10 hours of sleep every night. Separate your child from screen devices like TVs, computers, tablets, cell phones, and gaming devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime. This time goes by quickly when they bathe, brush their teeth, or prepare for tomorrow’s day.
Back to School!
Check-ups, Immunizations, and Flu shots
Save your child from unnecessary pain, illness, and death by getting them vaccinated. All 50 states require school-aged children to be immunized against diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, and chickenpox. So be sure your child’s immunizations are up-to-date for their safety, and for the safety of others. Check the vaccination requirements for your state below in our resources guide.
If your child gets sick at school
When you’re at work, getting a call from the school nurse can be a major disruption. Make sure you’re prepared when your child comes down with the flu or another illness.
If your child needs medication, the law may prevent schools from administering it without your written consent and a note from a doctor. School staff is not allowed to administer medications as needed unless you give them specific instructions on how to medicate your child. A good suggestion is to ask your pharmacist to put your child’s medication into two labeled bottles – one for use at home, the other to be kept at school. This way, you’re prepared to get your child the best treatment without the unnecessary delay if you’re unavailable.
Allergy Awareness
With common peanut allergies on the rise, it’s a good idea to talk with teachers, coaches, and other school staff about your child’s specific allergy needs. Make sure they inform other parents so their children don’t bring these life-threatening allergens to school.
If your child has a life-threatening food allergy or is allergic to bee stings, make sure their teacher and school staff know how to administer auto-injectable epinephrine which should be kept with the school nurse or other administrator.
Resources:
Immunization Schedules – Know what vaccinations your child needs and when
Recommended Immunizations for Children (Birth through 6 years)
Immunization Schedules for Preteens and Teens
Recommended Immunizations for Adults (19 Years and Older) by Age and Medical Condition
Use this State-by-State listing for Vaccination Requirements for K-12 for your state:
