They’ve got their pencils, got their books, but transitioning from pool to school is more than just academics. With the remaining Central Florida counties heading back to class this Monday, Centra Care physicians recommend parents talk with their children about important health and safety matters.
Back-to-School Stress
Fear and anxiety can produce real physical symptoms, including: stomach aches, headaches, trouble sleeping and more. Practice these stress-management techniques to help prepare your child.
§ Talk. When you help your child understand their fears and anxiety, and talk about it, the stress-symptoms often go away.
§ Teach them coping strategies: When they’re nervous or get a stomach ache, teach them how to identify their feelings, think through the situation, and shift their minds to things that are fun.
§ Proper rest and good nutrition are critical for increasing your child’s coping skills. Add protein to their breakfast so that their energy and concentration don’t crash before lunchtime.
§ Create downtime. Quiet time is important for your child to relax. Have them read a book, draw or write in a journal. If necessary, you may even need to cut back on their after school load.
Bike Safety
For those with children who bike to school, keeping your young cyclists safe, is paramount.
§ Insist that your child wear a helmet every time he/she rides a bicycle.
§ Replace any helmet that has been damaged.
§ Make sure the helmet fits snugly and covers the forehead.
§ Teach your child to look left-right-left before entering the roadway or intersection.
§ Never let a child ride a bicycle with headphones on.
§ Teach your child to ride defensively since many drivers do not see bicyclists.
Backpack Injury
Backpacks that are too heavy or worn incorrectly can cause problems for students; injuring muscles and joints. This can lead to severe back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems.
§ Always use both shoulder straps and tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. This will help evenly distribute the weight. Using just one strap slung over the shoulder can lead to strained muscles.
§ Pack light – a backpack should not weigh more than 15% of the child’s weight.
§ Organize – pack heavier items towards the center and utilize all compartments.
§ Remove items – teach your child to only carry the items they need. Encourage them to use a locker if available
§ Lift properly – when picking up or putting down the backpack. Bend at the knee, never at the waist.
School Sickness
Every parent knows that the school environment is a breeding ground for germs and illness. Here are some tips to help them to avoid getting sick:
§ Proper hand washing is one of the top ways to prevent many illnesses. Remind your children to wash their hands frequently throughout the day.
§ Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Illness is often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
§ Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
§ Include hand sanitizer in your child’s backpack for times when soap and water aren’t available.
§ Remind children not to share beverages or eating utensils with others
