National Immunization Month is August, and going back to school season is on its’ heals.

Watch this AFC medical minute for back to school school tips to make sure your child, (and you!) have an easy transition back into the school year, in a healthy manner, physically, mentally and emotionally.

 Out of the gate back to school basics:

• Any children participating in fall sports require sports physicals (remember to bring the sports physical form with you)
• Immunizations and school physicals should be prioritized, make sure your child is up to date on these appointments. If you have any vaccine concerns over vaccines, consult with your doctor
• Make sure to keep copies of all immunization records
• Use your school’s schedule to mark back to school open houses and parent-teacher conferences
• A summer full of late nights and loose rules can be overcome by setting up a back to school routine at least one week prior to the first day of school with a consistent bed time and time for meals, especially breakfast!
• Having a set time to turn off all electronics including computers, phones and tablets and TV for the night is important. Implementing this policy a week or two in advance is helpful in breaking “the spell”.
• Create a specific homework area

 First Week of School Support:

• Prepare lunches the night before to avoid rushing
• Make time for your child to have a healthy breakfast
• Teach your child to use alarms, and set one for yourself

Help your child overcome back to school anxiety:

• Remember to keep a cool head and not to be anxious. This helps reinforce confidence and low stress levels with your child
• Identify strategies that your child can use to cope if feeling overwhelmed
• Be there for them emotionally and physically as much as possible. This can be a stressful time for children, no matter what ag
• Encourage your child to make friends, and help plan play dates and after school activities that take their mind off of school
• Volunteer at your child’s school if possible. While it is sometimes difficult for working parents, statistics show that children do better at school if their parent is present and somewhat involved.

 Backpack Safety:

• Wide padded shoulder backpacks are the best choice for children
• Heavy  item’s should be packed toward the center of the back
• Make sure you child wears both straps
• If your child’s school allows roller backpacks, consider buying one
• Avoid over packing it. Web MD recommends the following body weight to backpack weight:

Child’s Weight/Backpack Weight:

50 pound 5 pounds

75 pounds 7.5 pounds

100 pounds 10 pounds

125 pounds 12.5 pounds

150 pounds 15 pounds

At AFC Urgent Care West Hartford we are available for all school and sports physicals as well as necessary immunizations. Sign in online or walk in. We are open 7 days a week.