Back-to-school season means different things for everyone. Whether your kids are starting out in kindergarten, heading into their freshman year, or going off to college – there are some things you should keep in mind.
Kids grow up fast! There are some routine vaccines that will need a booster dose as your kids grow. Check with your healthcare provider to see what vaccines they may need as they head into the new school year. This chart may also help!
It’s important that all children have their hearing and vision tested regularly to give kids the best chance at learning. Vision and hearing screenings will be administered by the school to all children in preschool, kindergarten, first, third, fifth, seventh (vision only), ninth, and eleventh grade as required by state law. If your child is suspected to have hearing or vision problems, the school nurse will send additional information home.
Use food to fuel brainpower! School cafeteria lunches are essential for meeting kids’ nutritional needs and keeping them going in the classroom! Packed lunches can do this just as well. Aim for a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins that your kids like to eat. Find ideas for packing lunches on Eatright.org. Keep food safety in mind to prevent foodborne illnesses by using insulated lunch bags with ice packs for keeping food cold.
Many kids walk or bike to school. It’s important to have a safe route planned! Use sidewalks or paths that are separated from busy streets, if possible. Always walk on the side of the street facing traffic and try to minimize the number of streets you need to cross. If a bike is the go-to choice of transportation, make sure to protect growing brains with a well-fitted, bicycle appropriate helmet.
Some students may be heading back to school with emotionally heavy backpacks. Remind your kids that it’s okay to ask for help and be ready to respond when they do. Warning signs to look for: watch for changes in behavior, things like being withdrawn, tantrums, or loss of interest in things that they usually do. If you notice changes, it’s important to reach out to your child’s healthcare provider. You can also connect with a free, confidential counselor by calling or texting 988.
Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine – the same addictive drug in regular cigarettes and cigars. If you know, or find out that your child is vaping, there are free options to help them quit. The Ohio Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT NOW) sponsored by the Ohio Department of Health offers the “My Life My Quit” program specifically for young people.
