Staying Healthy for School

Getting ready to go back to school is an exciting time of year. Kids are eager to see their friends while parents are shopping for school clothes and supplies. One aspect of school preparation that cannot be overlooked is health. Keeping kids healthy is a top priority for parents as they prepare to return to school. Following a few guidelines can help ensure that kids return to school active and prepared.

Safety First

Keeping children busy outside of school helps them to learn social etiquette and how to establish healthy boundaries. No matter the activity, safety, and health is always the main concern. Active children often get nicks and bruises; however, broken bones, subluxation, and other serious injuries can also happen. The idea of safety first is to minimize the risk of injury and prioritize good decision-making. This allows kids to enjoy their activities responsibly.


Another key ingredient to maintaining health is staying stress-free. Stress increases the chances of illness and can make the body tense. College-age students are often concerned about their finances and student loans. Having a summer job, making money, and keeping student loan finances in order can help to reduce stress as a new school year approaches. Being active, playing with friends, and participating in camps create an enjoyable and stress-free experience for younger children. Releasing energy and taking a break from the rigors of school can help kids be re-energized and excited when it is time to get ready to go back to school.

Practice Good Hygiene

Many kids spend their days running around outside with friends. Making sure they take the time to practice good hygiene can help them stay healthy as the school year starts. One of the most basic ways to practice good hygiene is to wash hands throughout the day and before eating. This prevents germs from contaminating food and kills the bacteria on your hands. Sneezing also allows germs to spread; however, practicing the proper technique of sneezing into the elbow can help to reduce the chance of illness. Children often touch their faces throughout the day, which can spread germs. Teaching them to keep their hands from their mouth, nose, and eyes can help minimize the chances of getting sick.

Well Balanced Diet

Practicing good eating habits is important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Busy schedules can make it challenging to make healthy, home-cooked meals. Parents often opt for the quick, fast-food burger or micro-wave meal. Quick fix meals are fine occasionally; however, it is not a good idea to depend on them regularly. Many pre-made meals contain an unhealthy amount of preservatives and sugar. Instead, it may be easier to plan meals and make a schedule for the week. A schedule leaves room for compromise and allows slight adjustments where needed. Eating vegetables has been proven to be one of the best defenses against illness. Vegetables give the body the nutrients and vitamins to function properly and protect against cancer and other diseases.

Get Sleep

Constant movement and hectic schedules can wear the body down. Getting the right amount of sleep can help the body recover and manage the rigors of daily life. A lack of sleep has been proven to increase irritability and lower the body's immune system, making it harder for the body to function correctly and fight sickness. Sleep helps children to stay attentive in school and focus on the tasks that need to be completed throughout the day. Performing better in school has been linked to better memory and good mental health.

Being in good health is important. Developing a good routine and healthy habits can ensure that the body is getting the rest and nutrients it needs to perform effectively and efficiently. Children look to parents to set a good example, so good health starts in the home. A family that practices healthy habits can lead to a lifetime of healthy choices.