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The summer is quickly ending, and the busy back-to-school season is upon us! As children return to the classroom, it’s important to make sure they are ready physically and emotionally. Here are some tips to help your children be healthy, safe, and successful this school year.

1.  Safety

Have a plan to get children safely to and from school. Children are usually ready to walk to school without an adult when they are in fifth grade or around 10 years old. Younger children are less aware around traffic, so stay alert when walking with them.

Walking with a young child to and from school:

• Hold your child’s hand and follow traffic safety laws when crossing streets.
• Obey all traffic signals and let the crossing guard help you.
• Look all ways before crossing the street and watch for cars. Remind children that drivers may not see them.
• Consider walking in groups.

For older students walking to school without an adult:

• Make sure they stick to a safe route that has crossing guards. In areas and towns without crossing guards, have them look both ways before crossing the street.
• Teach your child to cross only at designated intersections and corners. Most pedestrian accidents occur mid-block and not at intersections.
• Have your child walk with at least one other child.
• Tell children to say “no” if a stranger offers to give them a ride and to yell and run for help if needed.
• Explain that it’s not safe to use a cellphone while walking. It can cause distractions and make them less aware of traffic.
• Choose brightly colored backpacks and jackets with reflective materials.

Biking to school:

• Parents and caregivers should practice riding the route before the first day of school to make sure their child can manage the trip.
• Always wears a helmet and understand the rules of the road.
• Ride on the right side in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes when available.
• Stop and look both ways before entering the street.
• Stop at all intersections, whether marked or unmarked.
• Obey traffic lights and stop signs.
• Use hand signals and look in every direction before turning.

Riding the bus:

• Go early to the bus stop and stand away from the curb.
• If needed, always cross in front of the bus to ensure the driver sees you.
• Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens to go to the bus.
• Use the handrail while entering the bus.
• Buckle up!
• Always stay in your seat and keep your head and arms inside the bus.

2.  Healthy Lifestyle

Staying healthy is key during the busy back-to-school season. Prepare your children for all their academics and activities by making sure they eat nutritious meals, get plenty of rest, and keep moving.

Nutrition

• Children who eat a nutritious breakfast perform better in school and have better concentration and more energy.
• Many children qualify for free or reduced price meals at school, including breakfast.
• Provide healthy eating options during the school day. Learn what is offered in the school cafeteria.
• Choose healthier options such as water to send in your child's lunch.

Sleep

• Help your child adjust to earlier bedtimes.
• Create a consistent bedtime routine that will help your child settle down and fall asleep.
• Have your child turn off electronic devices well before bedtime.

Fitness

• Encourage healthy habits—including exercise—for your children.
• Remind them that sports and activities are not only fun but can promote good health.

3.  Annual Checkup

Kick the school year off with a visit to your pediatrician and ensure your child is up to date on immunizations, including the COVID-19 and flu vaccines. The pediatrician may also:

• Screen for hearing and vision problems.
• Check developmental milestones.
• Perform blood pressure and other screenings.

4.  Mental Health

Going back to school may make some children anxious or nervous. Listen to children’s feelings and talk to them about their concerns.

If your child’s anxiety becomes a persistent issue and interferes with school, it may be time to get support from a mental health professional. A mental health professional can help you figure out why your child is struggling and provide the support they need.

5.  Routines

Regular daily routines are important to a child’s healthy development. They provide children with a sense of safety and the opportunity to learn important life skills like self-discipline.

When creating a routine, think about what a typical day in your family looks like. Consider the most important goals for the day and areas for improvement.

Tasks to include in your routine:

• Bedtime
• Meal times
• Exercise
• Homework/studying
• Time to relax
• Family time
• Put electronics away
• Prepare for tomorrow (pack lunches, pick out clothes)

Have a great school year!