Back to School Season is Here!

Whether your kids are starting kindergarten, heading into their freshman year of high school, or going off to college, we've got tips to help them start the year healthy and prepared.

"A new school year brings fresh opportunities for students to thrive," said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director at the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). "It is important to prepare them for the year ahead by prioritizing their health."

Planning for the School Year

Kids grow up fast, and some routine vaccines require booster doses as kids age. Check with your healthcare provider to see what vaccines your child may need before the new school year. The Ohio Immunization Summary for School Attendance is a great tool to make sure your kids are up to date.

Consult with your child's school to make sure their health and medication forms are completed. Each school determines the health-related forms, policies, and procedures needed for students, and any documentation related to chronic health conditions. This includes action plans for conditions like asthma, diabetes, seizure disorders, and severe allergies - ensuring students receive the care they need during the school day.

To support families, the school or school nurse will send additional information home and help parents complete any necessary paperwork. By coordinating all health-related requirements, nurses help create a safe, well-prepared environment for every student.

Ensuring Good Sleeping Habits

Adequate sleep plays a vital role in helping children and teens learn, focus, and retain new information, with preschool-aged kids (3-5 years old) needing 10-13 hours of sleep (including naps), school-aged kids (6-12 years old) needing nine to 12 hours and adolescents (13-18 years old) eight to 10 hours each day. Parents can support healthier sleep by creating a welcoming sleep environment in their kid's bedroom, and helping their kids exercise regularly, avoid naps, limit screen use (especially at least an hour before bedtime), and follow a consistent routine.

Nutrition and Food Safety

Food fuels brainpower. School cafeteria meals or packed lunches can both meet nutritional needs. Aim for a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins your child likes. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics provides great lunch-packing ideas. Prevent foodborne illness by using insulated lunch bags with ice packs to keep food safely chilled. Find additional tips on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) website.

Safe Travel to School

Many kids walk or bike to school, while others get a ride from a parent or caregiver. Help them plan a safe route using sidewalks or paths separated from busy streets when possible. Tips include:

• Walk on sidewalks, if available.
• Only cross at crosswalks or intersections. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Wear a well-fitted, bicycle-appropriate helmet when riding.
• Make sure to keep your kids secured in their car/booster seat until your vehicle has stopped and you are in a safe drop-off location.

Mental Well-being

Some students return to school with emotionally heavy "backpacks." Remind your children that it's okay to ask for help and be ready to respond.
Some warning signs that your child may need help include:

• Withdrawal.
• Mood swings, emotional outbursts/crying easily.
• Loss of interest in usual activities.
• Sudden decrease in grades.
• Drug or alcohol use.
• Self-harming behaviors.

If you notice changes, reach out to your child's healthcare provider. If changes are worsening, you can also contact free, confidential support by calling or texting 988. Youth can also use Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) if they are experiencing any mental or emotional distress.

"Prioritizing your child's heath before school starts sets them up for success all year long," said Dr. DiOrio.

Getting ready for a new school year is about more than supplies - it's about supporting your child's overall well-being. By staying current on vaccines, planning for health needs, encouraging good nutrition, promoting safe travel, and watching for emotional changes, you help set your child up for success.

Additional Resources from ODH: