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Are you and your kids ready for the school year?

The summer will be over, and the kids will return to school before we know it.  Here are a few tips for a healthy and easy transition back to school for you and your kids.

1. Schedule a wellness visit.  A wellness visit is an excellent opportunity for your care team to discuss healthy lifestyle choices with your children, review vaccination status, check your kids’ vision, and assess developmental milestones.

2. Ensure your children are well-rested for school. Start adjusting your kid’s sleep schedule at least two weeks before the first day of school. Many children naturally stay up late and sleep in during the summer months. Depending on age, most children need 8 -11 hours of sleep each night. Progressively setting an earlier alarm for them while starting their bed routine earlier each day will make sure they are ready to learn when school starts.

3. Discuss nutrition with your children and provide them with healthy food options. According to John Hopkins, 17% of youths between the ages of 2 and 19 are obese. Unfortunately, many schools have vending machines filled with sodas and calorie-packed energy drinks. Encourage your kids to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, drink water rather than pop, and make wise snack choices.

4. Maintain open communication with your children about bullying.  Bullying has always been prevalent, and social media can allow additional ways for kids to experience negative behaviors.  Sadly, bully victims are between 2 to 9 times more likely to consider suicide than non-victims, according to studies by Yale University.  If you keep an open dialogue with your kids about social conflicts, friendships, and navigating difficulties, they will be more comfortable bringing forward concerns when they arise.