Aug 15, 2024 | Healthy Living

Back-to-School Tips for Staying Healthy

Keep your kids healthy this school year! Learn essential tips for boosting their immune system, classroom safety, and overall well-being. Visit our urgent care for expert advice.

You’re getting your daughter ready for the third day of school at Asheville Waldorf when she starts complaining of a stuffy nose and sore throat. You were just about to say bye to her before she stepped onto the school bus but decided maybe you should keep her home. As the excitement of a new school year approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize your child’s health and well-being. A strong immune system is the foundation for a healthy school year.

• Prioritize Sleep: Ensure your child gets adequate sleep each night. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep for younger children and 8-9 hours for teenagers. Sleep is essential for immune function, growth, and overall well-being.
• Nourish Their Body: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is crucial for a strong immune system. Pack nutritious lunches and snacks to fuel your child’s body and mind. Limiting sugary drinks and processed foods can also contribute to overall health.

The classroom environment can be a breeding ground for germs. Teaching your child good hygiene habits is essential to prevent the spread of illness.

• Wash Hands Frequently: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after blowing their nose. Hand sanitizer can be used as a supplement when soap and water are not readily available.
• Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue isn’t available, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow. This helps to prevent the spread of germs.
• Disinfect Shared Items: Encourage your child to wipe down their desk and other shared items regularly with disinfectant wipes. This can help reduce the number of germs on frequently touched surfaces.

Regular physical activity is crucial for both physical and mental health.

• Encourage Exercise: Find activities your child enjoys, such as dancing, biking, swimming, or playing sports. Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity most days of the week.
• Limit Screen Time: Set limits on screen time and encourage outdoor play and physical activity. Excessive screen time can contribute to sedentary behavior and negatively impact sleep patterns.

While prevention is key, it’s essential to know when to seek medical attention.

• Persistent Fever: A fever that lasts for several days or is accompanied by other severe symptoms.
• Difficulty Breathing: Shortness of breath or chest pain.
• Severe Headache: A sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
• Vomiting or Diarrhea: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea that leads to dehydration.

By following these tips, you can help your child start the school year off on the right foot.

If you have any concerns about your child’s health, don’t hesitate to visit our urgent care center. We’re here to help you keep your child healthy and happy throughout the school year.