Making sure your little one has everything they need to get ready for school, maybe for the first time, can be very exciting.
New school bag? Check! New lunch box? Check!
But what about their health? Here’s how you can help them have a healthy school year.
Help them manage the heat
Encouraging outside play is a great way for children to stay active, but it’s important to remind them of a few essentials, like1:
- Going inside, resting and drinking water when your child feels overheated
- Drinking water before and after playing outside, even if they don’t feel thirsty
- Wearing SPF50+ sunscreen before, during and after school to stay sun-safe
- Wearing a hat that protects the face, scalp, ears and neck when outside
Keep them calm
Going to school for the first time can be scary, no matter their age. It’s common for both children and teens to be filled with anxiety, especially if they’re going to kindergarten, high school or starting at a new school.
You can help soothe their anxieties by:
- Talking through the steps of returning to the classroom in plenty of detail
- Listen to their anxieties and provide comforting advice
- Allow some extra time in the morning to get ready on the first day so there’s no rush
- Get into the school-day routine a week early so they’re prepared for waking up, eating and going to bed at regular times
"Feeling nervous around the start or return to school is normal and understandable for both students and parents.
"There may be anxieties around separation, entering a transition year, making friends, having a new teacher, and workloads, but preparation is key to help alleviate this transition."
Jodie Caruana, School-Link Co-Ordinator, Sydney Children's Hospital Network
Help them eat healthy
Packing a delicious lunch is one way to get your child excited for school. You can help your child or teen eat healthy at school by2:
- Including a source of protein, such as tuna, egg, cheese or chicken in your child’s lunch to keep them full throughout the day
- Packing vegetables that are easy to munch on, such as carrot or celery sticks, to help them get their five serves a day
- Packing water instead of juice poppers or cordial, as water can help them stay hydrated
Don't forget to teach them healthy habits
Last but not least, teaching your child or teen healthy habits can help them stay in good health all school year long, like3:
- Washing their hands frequently to stop the spread of germs
- Covering their mouth and nose when they sneeze or cough
- Taking a break from screens when it’s impacting their daily life
- Prioritising physical activity, like playing outside with friends
If you’re having trouble with your child or teenager's health, please visit your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist.
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References:
1Healthdirect, Back to school health tips, accessed 13 January 2025
2NSW Government and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Back to school tips for parents and carers, accessed 13 January 2025
3Pfizer, Ready, Set, Go! Tips to Prepare for a Healthy Return to School, accessed 13 January 2025