As the new school year begins, ensuring your family's health is a top priority. Balancing academics with physical well-being is essential for a successful and smooth transition back to school.
At Epic Medical, located in Fox Chapel, we are dedicated to providing top-notch family and concierge medical care. Dr. Skvarla and his team are ready to partner with you to make this academic year stress-free and healthy for everyone. Schedule an appointment for personalized family health plans.
If you're looking for practical ways to keep your family healthy this school year, keep reading for essential tips and advice from our experts at Epic Medical.
Common Health Concerns During the School Year
The start of a new school year can bring about various health concerns, including:
- Excessive stress and anxiety
- Poor nutrition due to busy schedules
- Lack of sleep and disrupted sleep patterns
- Cold and flu season
- Increased exposure to germs in school settings
- Sports-related injuries
Tips for a Healthy School Year
After the long summer break, back-to-school time can be stressful for both parents and children. With the right preparation and mindset, it can be a smooth transition. Here are some tips to help your child transition smoothly and stay healthy throughout the school year:
1. Get Up-to-Date Vaccinations
With the start of a new school year, make sure your child's vaccinations are up to date. Most schools have strict vaccination requirements for enrollment, and it's crucial to comply with them. Vaccinating not only protects your child from serious diseases but also helps prevent outbreaks within the school community.
2. Ensure a Healthy Diet
Healthy eating habits support physical and mental well-being, making them essential for a successful school year. Make sure your child has a balanced breakfast before school, packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals.
For lunch or snacks, opt for whole foods and limit processed and sugary items. Try to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your child's meals as much as possible.
3. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Establishing a consistent sleep routine is vital for maintaining your child's health and ensuring academic success. Sleep helps with concentration, memory retention, and overall mood. To help everyone move into the school routine, gradually adjust your family's bedtime. Start moving your child's bedtime and wake-up time by 10 minutes every few days until it matches the school schedule. Create a calming bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.
The National Sleep Foundation provides clear guidelines for how much sleep individuals need at different stages of life to function at their best.
Ensuring each family member gets adequate sleep is crucial for their well-being and success both in school and daily activities.
4. Manage Stress Effectively
Starting a new school year can be stressful for both children and parents. It's essential to recognize signs of stress in your family members and address them effectively. Signs like:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Mood swings
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches
Encourage open communication with your children and provide support through any challenges they may face. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can also help manage stress levels
5. Encourage Proper Hygiene Habits
Preventing the spread of illnesses in school starts with good hygiene practices. At a young age, teach them to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing. Keep hand sanitizer handy for times when hand washing is not possible.
Also, remind your family members not to share personal items like water bottles or hats with others to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
6. Stay Active Together
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health and reducing stress levels. Encourage your family to stay active together by participating in activities such as:
- Going for a walk or bike ride
- Playing a game of soccer or basketball
- Swimming at a local pool
Regular physical activity not only promotes overall well-being but also helps children perform better in school.
7. Teach Backpack Safety
As children head back to school, they often have a lot of heavy textbooks and supplies to carry. Help prevent back pain and injuries by teaching your child how to properly pack and wear their backpack. Some tips include:
- Using both straps to evenly distribute the weight
- Adjusting the straps so that the backpack sits at waist level
- Limiting the weight of the backpack to no more than 10%-15% of your child's body weight.
8. Schedule Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups are crucial in maintaining good health and preventing any potential issues. Make sure everyone in your family has an annual physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings if necessary. These check-ups can catch any health concerns early on and allow for timely treatment.
Epic Medical offers comprehensive family medical services to keep your loved ones healthy throughout the school year and beyond. You can count on our team to provide personalized and compassionate care for your family's unique needs.
Partner with Epic Medical for a Healthy School Year
Choosing the right healthcare partner is essential for ensuring your family’s health and well-being throughout the school year. At Epic Medical, we are committed to providing top-quality care for patients of all ages. From routine physicals and vaccinations to managing chronic conditions and providing mental health support, our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you every step of the way.
By partnering with Epic Medical, you’ll have access to:
- Comprehensive family health care services
- Experienced and compassionate medical professionals
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each family member
- Convenient appointment scheduling and follow-ups
Ready to Ensure a Healthy School Year?
Ensure your family is ready for the new school year by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Skvarla and his team. Visit our website or call us today at (412) 963-7350 to make an appointment and set the foundation for a healthy school year.
